Labor Day will soon be here. That three-day weekend informally marks the end of the summer recreational season. Its real purpose is to pay tribute to the contributions along with the social and economic achievements of American workers. As we recognize the importance and value of all our workers let’s also recognize the value of work itself.

All too often when we think of work it is not considered something to look forward to. Drudgery, tedium, and other negative descriptions easily come to mind in connection with having to do work. This is true whether we think of our employment or chores around the house. The reason for such negative thoughts is a result of mankind’s fall into sin through the disobedience of Adam and Eve. At that moment God said to Adam, “Cursed is the ground because of you; through painful toil you will eat of it all the days of your life. It will produce thorns and thistles for you, and you will eat the plants of the field. By the sweat of your brow you will eat your food until your return to the ground…” (Genesis 3:17-19)

The activity of work did not come from sin. Work was a part of life in the paradise of the Garden of Eden. We read in Genesis 2:15, “The Lord God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and take care of it.” God gave Eve to Adam as a helper. They both would work together. So work has been a part of man’s existence from creation, but sin has changed our attitude toward work.

God gave us work for good. Even today it is recognized that work is beneficial for us physically and emotionally. When people retire those who use their time doing various activities usually live longer. Most need to find something to do with their time. They feel better, more fulfilled and valuable, as they see themselves as making some kind of contribution to their community and family.

Sin has affected our enjoyment of work, but God still blesses with the ability to work and to seek fulfilment in what we do. Knowing God’s love and forgiveness He helps us to deal with sin’s effects on our attitude toward work. He gives us hope and the ability to try to see the benefits of work.

Learn more how God can give you a better attitude toward work. Please visit or contact St. Paul Lutheran Church, Fredonia (672-6731), Immanuel Lutheran Church, Gowanda (532-4342), or Trinity Lutheran Church, Silver Creek (934-2002).