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Hunger Games – Hunger for Meaning in Your Work

Many people are not happy in their jobs or vocations. In this economy, job satisfaction is practically non-existent. God must have a better plan for our lives than simply toiling and getting through our daily grind. All of us struggle at times the same way Solomon did when he wrote that all our toil is meaningless. So where does job satisfaction come from? What gives our work meaning?

Scriptures
Ephesians 6:6-7, Ecclesiastes 5:15, Exodus 20:9-10, Matthew 6:31-32, Ecclesiastes 3:13

Verses
Don’t just do what you have to do to get by, but work heartily, as Christ’s servants doing what God wants you to do. And work with a smile on your face, always keeping in mind that no matter who happens to be giving the orders, you’re really serving God. (Ephesians 6:6-7 MSG) We leave this world just as we entered it—with nothing. In spite of all our work there is nothing we can take with us. (Ecclesiastes 5:15 GNT) You have six days in which to do your work, but the seventh day is a day of rest dedicated to me. (Exodus 20:9-10. GN) Don’t worry, saying, `What shall we eat… or drink… or wear?’ For pagans run after these things, and your Heavenly Father knows you need them. (Matthew 6:31-32) All of us should eat and drink and enjoy what we have worked for. It is God’s gift.” (Ecclesiastes 3:13 GN)

Thought
When we lose sight of why we are working and who we are working for, all meaning and purpose is lost. It’s easy to fall into the trap of grumbling and complaining. But God has a plan and has meaning for our work. We work for God, no matter what our occupation happens to be. If our purpose for working gets twisted, the pursuit of “stuff’ quickly becomes meaningless. The best we can do is work “unto the Lord,” trust that He will make sure our needs are met, and enjoy the blessing he gives us!

Questions
Where do you think you would rate your job satisfaction on a scale of one to 10? Do you find your work meaningful? Do you know anyone who would trade places with you? What would you differently at work if you knew Jesus was going to review it when you were done? Do you worry about your financial security? What do you do for enjoyment? Do you find it hard to spend money on having fun?

Response
Ask God for some ways you can dedicate your work to Him. Thank God for those the things that you have and the blessing in your life. Pray for those who are less fortunate than you. Take some time to plan or do something you enjoy.

Prayer
Dear Lord, You know my heart and my thoughts; help me to be a blessing to others at work and be a reflection of you. Thank you for all you have given me and done for me; I lift up to you those who are less fortunate than me. Amen.

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