fruitless exertion...

"It's useless to rise early and go to bed late,

and work your worried fingers to the bone.

Don't you know he enjoys

giving rest to those he loves?"

- Psalm 127:2 MSG

Is it just me or does this contradict the core of what our society drives and pounds into us as contributing members of the business world? How do we reconcile this idea that God did not intend for us to worry, over work ourselves, stress out, and so much more? As a person I am wired for success and to strive for perfection in everything that I do... but yet in so many aspects it is unattainable. When implementing this concept into my life of attempting not to worry as it does not accomplish anything, it seems that I am going against everything that makes people successful in the world. But maybe that is my problem am I striving for worldly or spiritual success? Can I have both? If so how?

I also feel that sometimes I have a difficult time "tooting my own horn." God ridiculed the Pharisees for fasting and making a big deal out of it so that everyone would know how "holy" they were. To my benefit or my fault I unintentionally feel that I sometimes adopt a similar philosophy in my work life and career. I work my hardest in everything that I do, help all that I can, and probably do not say no enough. I do all of this because I like to think that I have integrity and am a humble person. But in the workplace and business world this can often times be misinterpreted as being timid, undetermined, or unqualified for a different position or promotion. Although I know that even if my coworkers, superiors, or organization cannot see the work and effort that I give in its entirety, God does.... and his opinion and plan are what's most important in my life.

I understand that God knows me down to the number of hairs on my head, he understands me and created me for a unique and wonderful purpose. The somewhat frustrating and battle going on inside my mind and body is what this purpose might be. The mind is a powerful thing... Lord use it to my advantage and your Kingdom!