Some people think work is a result of sin.  They think God made us to relax in Paradise, but after Adam and Eve sinned, God made us work.  That's not true, God designed us as workers BEFORE He created the universe!  Look at what we're told in God's word  "God made us to do good works, which He planned in advance for us to live our lives doing."  Ephesians 2:10 (NCV)

God MADE US to do good works, and He planned those works "in advance."  How far in advance?  Before the foundation of the universe.  God plans ahead!  What kind of work did God plan for us to do?  The cool thing is God planned all different kinds of work for us.  That's why some of us have natural skills and abilities in certain areas--mechanical, medical, educational, culinary, and many, many others, while others of us have other natural skills and abilities.  When we trust Jesus as Savior and Lord, when we're born again, the Holy Spirit takes up residence in our lives. He gives each of us a gift or gifts with which we can work together to build up the Body of Jesus Christ.

Take a moment and think of the natural gifts and abilities God has given you.  (Don't tell me you don't have any.  Everyone does!)  What are the spiritual gifts God has given  you?  How are you using those gifts and abilities with other believers to carry out God's plan and purpose for your life?  Imagine if everyone at New Life worked together using all our gifts, skills and abilities to carry out God's purposes of worship, fellowship, discipleship, ministry and mission.  It would be incredible!  That IS God's plan and purpose. 

One of the exciting things I've seen in my own family is that each of us has gifts, skills and abilities that complement one another. When we work together, we have sometimes accomplished so much that it surprised us.  Multiply that times every family in New Life!  That's the plan.  Now's the time for us to recognize it and work it!

Let's pray:  Heavenly Father, Thank You so much for creating us to do works in Your name!  Fill us with the Holy Spirit that we may work together to glorify You and extend Your glory near and far.  This we pray in Jesus' name.  Amen.