I'm always on the look out for a book that meets a spiritual need, is instructional, interesting, and Biblically accurate for our family devotional times. And since we've been talking about chores and routines, I thought it would be appropriate to mention one of my favorites, Created for Work by Bob Schultz.
Bob uses his experience as a finish carpenter to write vignettes about work and how it glorifies the Lord and shapes one's character as we go about our daily tasks. Since my husband was a carpenter and cabinet maker before entering the ministry, he completely related with all the scenarios. But make no mistake, my three girls were not put off by the illustrations Bob used to get his point across.
And while this book was written for boys, girls need to develop a work ethic as well.
Created for Work clearly articulates all the different aspects of what it means to honor the Lord through your work. Bob tackles subtopics of work such as taking initiative, difficulties, confidence, the value of maintenance, keeping your word, discouragement, keeping your vision, working within the rules, finishing your job, and many more. Each of the thirty-four chapters includes questions at the end to enhance your discussion after reading.
When we read this, our daughters were 15, 9, and 5. The two older girls really got a lot out of the lessons and we often referred to the character trait we had discussed that week when it came to chore time! It really helped our girls gain insights and improved their attitude toward jobs around the house or when serving others. When our younger one is a bit older, I suspect we'll read it again as a refresher. In the meantime, we'll keep working at getting better at our work and hopefully, character will develop and we'll glorify Jesus Christ!
"Whatever you do, do your work heartily, as for the Lord rather than men..."
- Colossians 3:23
