This past week, I watched portions of an interview that Oprah conducted with Bret Michaels, the former "Poison" rocker who recently had a brain hemorrhage. Michaels discussed moments when his life flashed before his eyes--when he thought about his daughters and being at their weddings.
Oprah said something like, "You know--people always say that in those moments you don't think, 'I wish I would have worked more' or 'I wish I had more money.' You think about the people you love--it puts your life instantly into perspective."
I think Oprah and Bret were spot-on in their assessment of perspective. But I think for many people, near-death experiences don't just bring their love for their families to the forefront (as amazing and admirable as that love is). The bigger question many people at death's door wrestle with is this: Did my life matter?
That question and the Oprah/Bret Michaels interview came to mind when I read this portion of today's passage:
If God doesn't build the house,
the builders only build shacks.
If God doesn't guard the city,
the night watchman might as well nap.
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?
I don't believe this passage is devaluing the importance of work, but emphasizing the importance of God's involvement in our work. There's a big difference. There are good things we try to do on our own that we ask for God's help with. And there are other things we do that are contrary to God's work (that we shouldn't be doing and should ask His forgiveness for). Those are the things that are meaningless.
But if you invite God to be involved in your good work (whether it's as a 9-to-5 employee, a parent, a volunteer at a church or non-profit organization, etc.), asking Him for help and guidance (and actually taking it!), then your work can be worthwhile.
This excerpt also addresses worry and stress--did you notice that? It talks about working your "worried fingers" to the bone. When we worry, we're not trusting in the strength and provision of God. And when we're stressed, God is there to give us rest, but we have to accept it, let go of the stress and trust Him (yeah, I just used that word "trust" again).
The main point? When God's in something, it's worthwhile. Your life, your career, your family, your friendships--they can all matter in eternity if you ask God to lead and help you along the way. And the bonus? Trusting in God can allow you to be free from worry and stress--because He brings strength, provision and perspective to your life.
