September 7: Work With Your Own Hands
For a lot of years, work was something you got through so you could drink. Now you’re sober, and work looks different. What does God want from you there?
“And that ye study to be quiet, and to do your own business, and to work with your own hands, as we commanded you; That ye may walk honestly toward them that are without, and that ye may have lack of nothing.”
Paul gives some very down-to-earth advice. Make it your ambition to lead a quiet life, to mind your own business, and to work with your own hands. That way outsiders will respect you, and you won’t be dependent on anyone.
Quiet. Minding your own business. Working with your hands. It’s not glamorous. It’s steady. And for someone in recovery, steady is beautiful.
Labor Day comes early in September. It’s a good time to think about your work life. How did drinking affect your job? Late arrivals. Missed days. Mistakes. Coworkers who covered for you. Bosses you lied to. Some of those are on your amends list.
Some work amends need to be direct. A boss you stole from. A coworker you blamed for your mistakes. Those are worth talking over with your sponsor or pastor first, since work amends can affect your livelihood and your family. Timing and wisdom matter.
But many work amends are living amends. Being on time. Doing honest work. Not cutting corners. Taking responsibility when you get something wrong. Over months and years, that kind of faithfulness speaks louder than any apology.
Paul says this kind of life earns respect. For many of us, respect at work was lost a long time ago. It comes back slowly, one honest day at a time.
And don’t forget the other side. Work is not your whole life. Don’t trade drinking for working eighty hours a week. That’s just another way to escape. Work hard, then go home and be present with your family.
One thing today
Do your work today as if it were an amends to everyone who ever had to cover for you. Be on time, honest and helpful. Then go home and rest.
A prayer
Lord, thank You for work and the ability to do it. Help me work honestly, quietly and well. Let my work today be part of making things right. Amen.
Living amends at work are one way to practice Step Nine.
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