A Mind To Work

 

   Jerusalem was in a dilapidated state. The walls were broken down, the gates were burned, and the people were in great distress. But Nehemiah, longing to help his people, prayed to God. His prayer was heard, and King Artaxerxes sent him to Jerusalem. And when he had spoken to the people, they put their hands to the task, and as Nehemiah 4:6 reads, “the people had a mind to work.” It was because of this commendable attitude that the wall was rebuilt. What an example for the church of today to follow!

 

   Christ’s church should have a mind to work when it comes to benevolence. In His Sermon on the Mount, Jesus said, “Give to him who asks you, and from him who wants to borrow from you do not turn away” (Matthew 5:42). When we fail to be generous with what we have, we fail those who are in need, but we also fail ourselves by denying one of the greatest joys on earth…giving. 

 

   The body of Christ, (Ephesians 1:22-23) should have a mind to work regarding exhorttation. Each member of the church is specifically urged to engage in this practice. Elders (Titus 1:9), preachers (II Timothy 4:2), and Christians in general (Hebrews 3:13) should all take on the task of exhorting the brethren.  Christians must study to know God’s word, (II Timothy 2:15) and by that knowledge be able to exhort and encourage others. 

 

   All followers of Christ must have a mind to work in regard to teaching the gospel. We must teach because it is by the gospel that men are drawn to Christ (John 6:44-45). We must teach because it is by the gospel that faith is produced (Romans 10:17). And we must teach because it is by the gospel that men are saved (I Corinthians 1:21).

 

   The church of Christ must have a mind to work towards anything that God has commanded (John 14:15). Are you forsaking the good works of God? Toil today while you still can.

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