It takes work

Those who know me know how blessed I really am. I have a beautiful wife who thinks I am the greatest thing since sliced bread, two children who, for the moment, think I am a decent dad, a job I like, a house that is nice, a home that is wonderful, and Heaven to come. Yet, while I am truly blessed beyond measure, I have to do my part.

Yes, Trish is fantastic. But, I doubt she would be interested in me if I didn't treat her with love and respect. The kids love me partly because they know my sincere love for them. I like my job and I have been very blessed with it but I don't think they would continue paying me if I didn't do what was required. It takes work.

Today's word is a reminder that, if you'll pardon the paraphrase, you get out of something what you put into it. Today's scripture is Psalm 128:2, NIV, which reads, "You will eat the fruit of your labor; blessings and prosperity will be yours."

Now, the preceding verse tells us that these blessings will be for those "...who fear the LORD and walk in His ways." And, that is absolutely true. If we will fear the LORD and walk in His ways we will certainly eat the fruit of our labors and enjoy blessings and prosperity. But, note that it takes some effort, some commitment, some work on our part - we must fear (reverence) the LORD and we must WALK IN HIS WAYS.

Some people are wanting blessings and prosperity but aren't willing to put forth the effort. You cannot reap the fruit from a garden without putting in the effort to plant, sow, and hoe. You cannot reap the benefits of a loving relationship without putting forth the effort to become a lovable person. You cannot eat the fruit of hard work if you don't do some hard work.

Blessings and prosperity are available to all who are willing to expend the effort to attain them. Now, you cannot earn GOD'S favor. You cannot earn salvation. You cannot earn gifts. Yet, GOD will bless our efforts when we walk in His ways!

Be Blessed,
Mickey T