Hard Work: Aesop’s Farmer and His Sons

Aesop’s Fable The Farmer and His Sons has a lesson that’s applicable today. 

A rich old farmer was dying.  Before passing from this life, he gave his sons some final instructions. The farmer told his sons that there was a hidden treasure buried on the land. They would surely find it if they searched for it. So they took his words to heart.

Upon his death, they quickly set to work turning over every square foot of ground on that farm. Now they didn’t find gold, but at harvest time they gained a profit greater than all their neighbors.

In all their digging, they had unknowingly prepped the land for an incredible harvest. Their wise father knew that in industry and hard work they would find treasure. Work produces income and gives dignity. It’s a blessing to the worker and many others. 

Solomon said it this way: “All hard work brings a profit, but mere talk leads only to poverty.” (Proverbs 14:23)

Now the average American spends about 100,000 hours working over a 50-year span. Finding satisfaction in our work in a place where God can prosper our efforts, demands a proper mindset.

Remember to work as if working for the Lord.  When employees, managers, and business owners act on this, productivity is improved, people are treated fairly and the workplace becomes one of great joy.

Work hard. Solomon said: “Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might.” (Ecclesiastes 9:10)

But it must be balanced by other priorities in life: your relationship with Christ, your spouse, and your family. If you need more income, ask yourself: “Am I working hard as unto the Lord?”

Now, if credit card debt is keeping you from stewarding well, I recommend Christian Credit Counselors. They can create a debt management plan just for you. For more information call the Crown Helpline at 800-722-1976 or visit online at Crown.org/ccc.