I saw an interesting article in the paper that carried a call for a return to a good work ethic. Although the article did not present it with the understanding that the work ethic has a biblical foundation, it still made a very good point. The report quoted a number of employers who had the common complaint that the young people coming into the work force very often did not have a fundamental understanding of work expectations. Too often, the author wrote, the mentality of these applying for jobs was an “entitlement” mentality. “I deserve this job,” was how many approached it. According to the article, employers are calling on schools to spend more time teaching students a work ethic rather than the common “self-esteem, you are the greatest” drivel that seems to permeate the education system. One thing employers reported having to do often with new applicants was explain to them that they were not as wonderful as they thought themselves to be. Often these new entrants to the working world are incredulous that so much is expected of them if they are to earn a paycheck.
I have a nephew who some years ago joined the Navy. Two days into boot camp he called his dad. He could not believe what was expected of him. He said, “Dad, they make us get up at 4:30 am! They can’t do that, can they?!” His dad just laughed. If you will practice a biblical work ethic, you will understand the real value of work and the real truth of “an honest day’s work for an honest day’s pay.”