Monday, September 2nd

Labor Day is designated as the first Monday in September.  Most of us don't really know why we celebrate the day, but we do know that we get the school day off!  Some families traditionally grill out; others use it as a day to do nothing but relax.  Historically, this day is set aside to honor the achievements of the working class.  This country is founded upon the blood, sweat, and tears of dedicated, determined Americans that haven't minded getting their hands dirty in order to provide for their families.  If your parents work hard to provide you a home, clothes, and the luxuries that you have, thank God for them and determine that someday you will work just as hard to provide for your own families.

In respect of today's holiday, I'd like for you to think about the word "labor".  It very simply means to exert mental or physical effort.  So, in other words labor means work.  The Scripture gives many, many references for the word labor because, quite frankly, the Lord hates laziness.  We are to labor or work in our lives, girls, and there's no getting around that.  If you look around, it's not hard to spot people who do not want to work for what they get; they want you to work and pay for it for them.  Surely, you've seen students at your school cheating on tests?  Why are they cheating?  They refused to labor in their studies---they want someone else to do the work and give them the grade.  We've all come in contact with someone who thinks the world owes them something.  Meanwhile, they don't feel like they need to work a job; rather, they should have food, housing, clothing, etc. simply because it's their entitlement.  Girls, note one very important Scripture:

For even when we were with you, this we commanded you, that if any would not work, neither should he eat.  II Thessalonians 3:10

 

 

Purpose in your hearts today that you will work hard in life for the things you want.  God always blesses honest, diligent effort.  He does not reward a sluggard (a lazy person).  Be diligent in your school work; help your parents at home; serve at your church.  There's effort in labor, but there is honor in hard work.

 

Wherefore we labour, that, whether present or absent, we may be accepted of him.  II Corinthians 5:9

 

Scripture Reading for the Day:

 

Proverbs 2

John 3