Scripture for Today: Philippians 1:6 “…being confident of this, that He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”

What do you do to celebrate Labor Day?  Forget the picnics, parades, and sports events.  In Wisconsin this day has been celebrated with a Cow Chip Throwing Contest!  Labor Day is normally considered summer’s last gasp and the signal for back-to-school.  Originally, the idea was to pay tribute to the American worker, recognizing his value in strengthening our nation and economy.  Created by the labor movement in the late nineteenth century, Labor Day was a positive outcome after years of strikes protesting deplorable working conditions.

Today’s verse describes a labor of love.  This work has no day off and is never on strike!  God is continually at work in the heart of every believer.  He has His work cut out for Him, changing us to be like His Son.  He has pledged to continue this work faithfully right up until the moment of Christ’s return.  He never quits.  He never gives up.  One day the work Jesus is doing in me will be complete.  One day I will be like Him (I John 3:2) and this life-long labor will be a thing of the past!  But for now, everyday He is at work.

He asks me to cooperate with Him.  He even creates in me the desire to cooperate! (Phil. 2:13)  It is a strange working partnership where He provides the strength and gives me the goal.  The incentives are the blessings He gives for my obedience.  There are rewards promised for faithfulness and perseverance.  The best thing about this work is that it is never in vain!  He has promised an incredible outcome!

Thank you Lord, for Your labor of love in me!