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ETHICS FOR SERVICE (II)
MONDAY, JANUARY 5
Nehemiah 2:1-8

Ecclesiastes 9:1-12

 

“Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do,

do it with thy might.”

 

ETHICS FOR SERVICE (II)
 
Trusting in God to lead, guide and direct our life is the foundation of Christian living, and this faith must be exercised in all of life’s circumstances. This faith, however, does not result in a fatalistic kind of life which leaves us with no responsibility. As we approach each situation of life with faith, we also have to approach it with care, avoiding any unnecessary hurt, harm, animosity or conflict. This is seen in how Nehemiah responded to the situation in which he found himself while in the presence of the king. This is what we mean by trust in God and tact in life. But there is also the matter of our habits and character.
 
Now I had not been beforetime sad in his presence (Neh 2:1). The general statement Nehemiah gave was also a historical one, one that depicted his character and habits while on duty over an unspecified period, as given by the word “beforetime.” Modern distinctions between “secular” and “spiritual” work have given some Christians the notion that they can be faithful in doing spiritual duties, and excuse unfaithfulness in the secular ones. Faithfulness and diligence in work are habits that have no distinction between secular and spiritual employment. To the spiritual, all employments are spiritual and every work is done as “unto the Lord.”
 
For what dost thou make request? So I prayed to the God of heaven (Neh 2:4). The king’s question to Nehemiah drew a spiritual initial response that reflected the character and habits of Nehemiah. In his response to pray in the midst of a very sensitive situation between him and his king, in a setting that many would term “secular,” it is clear that Nehemiah had cultivated the spiritual habit of prayer. The king’s question also pointed to the relationship between them. He sought not only to know what burdened his faithful servant, but also sought to know what his desire and request were. One who would serve God ought to be one who is both spiritual and hardworking, diligent and prayerful in all his duties and responsibilities.
 
THOUGHT: Diligence in work and prayer marks a faithful servant.

PRAYER: Grant me, O Father, a diligent hand and a fervent heart.

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