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I have never been a morning person. My brain just refuses to warm up very quickly when it’s early. My body follows suit, with stiff muscles protesting against motion and avoiding anything faster than a snails pace. The residual fatigue from the previous night’s sleep can sometimes make it difficult to leave for work on time.
Although I enjoy the creative aspect of my job as a hair stylist, I often find myself intimidated by the sheer volume of people I come in contact with on a daily basis. Unfortunately, that translates many times in the wish that I didn’t have to go to work. So my natural tendency towards sluggishness in the morning combined with the desire to avoid crowds of people can put a real cramp in my attitude at times.
However, as much as I would love to be able to stay home whenever the urge hits, there are numerous reasons for getting myself out the door.
First of all, it is my responsibility to be faithful. I am contributing to the family income, my clientele expect me to be there for their appointments, and my employer relies on me to keep the hours I have scheduled to work. Knowing these people depend on me helps bring things into better perspective and makes me more eager to jump in and get the day started. (“She sets about her work vigorously; her arms are strong for her tasks.” Proverbs 31:17)
There are also rewards for doing a job well and serving with a positive attitude. These promises are found in Scripture. (“Do you see a man skilled in his work? He will serve before kings; he will not serve before obscure men.” Proverbs 22:29) (“Moreover, when God gives any man wealth and possessions, and enables him to enjoy them, to accept his lot and be happy in his work—this is a gift of God.” Ecclesiastes 5:19)
Certainly recognition, wealth and happiness are excellent motivation for getting things done, but what about those times when it just isn’t enough? Some days it seems like just one more individual moaning about their problems is enough to drive a person over the edge, and wouldn’t it just be easier to not even try?
Again, it is in God’s Word that we find those commands that offer the guidance and direction we need, even if it is not the “feel good” solution we may be hoping for.
“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men.” Colossians 3:23
What? Wait. So I am not really styling hair for a fussy, grumpy old woman? I am actually serving the Lord? It can be difficult to grasp, but it is the truth. Even when up against a demanding boss or dealing with a temperamental co-worker, I am still the hands of Christ to those I come in contact with.
I remember one of my mom’s favorite phrases. I heard this so often as a young girl that I took it for granted, until finding myself in situations that weren’t always fun. “Cheerfully as unto the Lord!” she would always say. Now I understand that it was about adjusting my attitude so that God could work through me even when I didn’t feel up to the task.
“And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.” Colossians 3:17
Copyright L. Joy Douglas
