CONCERT OF PRAYER

Pray Week 997

 “Rejoice in the Day”

This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it. (Psalm 118:24)

I am tired. I am weary. I admit it. I have been in the workforce for more than 50 years now and I am ready for something new – something with freedom – something relaxing and enjoyable.

I used to enjoy work and looked forward to the new challenges each day would bring but things have changed. I have changed.

I find that I have little tolerance and patience with the new entitled workforce that I am asked to lead in today’s retail environment. When did a solid work ethic become replaced with a selfish ‘what’s in it for me’ and ‘It’s not my job’ attitude? Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men… (Colossians 3:23)

If you ‘coach’ today’s workforce to hold them accountable, they need to run to their safe place and cry foul. I miss the days when a good Gibbs-Dinodzzo slap behind the head was an acceptable attitude adjustment method. I just want to say, ‘Buck up, Buttercup! You are paid by the hour – work by the hour.’ I am a dinosaur in today’s environment and I am weary.  Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. (Matthew 11:28)

I heard from a friend recently about his coworker that retired at 60 years old and died of a heart attack shortly thereafter. Stories like this only fuel my impatience and anticipation of the day when I can retire – healthy and able to enjoy it. When I began to fret about this, the Lord took me to His woodshed and reminded me through His Word that I am not guaranteed tomorrow in this world. O Lord, make me know my end and what is the measure of my days; let me know how fleeting I am! Behold, you have made my days a few handbreadths, and my lifetime is as nothing before you… (Psalm 39:4-5)

God’s Word also reminds us that we must seek first His kingdom and righteousness and not to put a priority on chasing after the desires and things of the flesh and this world. But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. (Matthew 6:33)

God’s Word then speaks encouragement to the hearts of all of us who are weary and tired and He energizes our spirit with His grace to persevere through each day. And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that having all sufficiency in all things at all times, you may abound in every good work. (2 Corinthians 9:8)

But they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint. (Isaiah 40:31)

I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. (Philippians 4:13)

If you are also weary, I pray that you too will find the strength and grace to persevere and that you will receive encouragement, peace, and joy through the abiding presence of our Lord, Jesus. May you rejoice in the day and be glad in it because each day is the day that the Lord has made for you.