Word for the day by Christian Education Forum

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Accountable Hands: Integrity in God’s Work

Bible Reading:   2 Kings 12: 4-15

Key verse:  "“They did not require an accounting from those to whom they gave the money to pay
the workers, because they acted with complete honesty.” - 2 Kings 12:15

DEVOTION

In the early years of King Joisha's reign, he declared the temple to be repaired and  instructed the priest to collect money from the people. However, due to poor instructions and  negligence, in his 23rd year, the repairs of the temple had still not begun. Realizing this, he  assigned specific roles where the priests collected donations and gave them to the supervisors.  The supervisors then gave the funds to the carpenters who did their work diligently. Because of  their complete honesty, no accounting of the money was required.  
This passage serves as a reminder to us about the importance of accountability. We see  two groups in their integrity to do God’s work where one group was not able to fulfill their duties  and another faithfully completing their duties. Similarly, we find ourselves immersed in our  workplace focused solely on earning money. We often deal with immense stress due to the  demands of our job and often forget about our true purpose. This can lead to burnout reducing  the energy spent in our tasks to lapses in honesty in fulfilling our workplace responsibilities.  Billy Graham once said, “When wealth is lost, nothing is lost; when health is lost, something is  lost; when character is lost, all is lost.” We live in an age where money overrules our basic  humanity. In a time where social media has become a platform for flaunting a monetary lifestyle,  we sadly have become desensitized to true human values. It is during this time where our faith  and character as Christians are tested. As believers our foundation is Jesus Christ, and our  character must reflect him. Colossians 3: 23-24 states, “Whatever you do, work at it with all your  heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an  inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.” Though it may  seem hard for us to deal with everyday stresses in our life, we must remember that every little  thing we do carries a significant impact to others around us. Because our character is founded on  Jesus, nothing can truly be lost. Our ultimate duty is to glorify God and we can do this by letting  our character shine as His testimony.  
 

PRAYER

Almighty Father, you gave us the breath of life and you call us as your own. Use us for your  glory in every step we take. Lord grant us the strength and courage to live a life that honors you  and reflects your love to others. In your name we pray Amen.  


THOUGHT FOR THE DAY

Today is a new day, the day the Lord has made. How will your character reflect Him to those  around you? 

Ria Roy  
Epiphany Mar Thoma Church, NY

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