WK$2$ Collaboration: Devotional

Please read the following scriptures.

Deuteronomy $8$:$18$

II Thessalonians $3$:$6-15$

A disciplined life takes planning and hard work. In this II Thessalonians passage, the Apostle Paul sets himself up as an example of leading a disciplined life through a strong work ethic. Paul goes so far as to suggest anyone not working will not be eating $($verse $10).$ He is affirming a strong work ethic. On a deeper level, he is acknowledging that a disciplined life sets an example of Christ to the unbeliever.

A believer can witness through their disciplined work ethic and actions, as well as through their words. In a business environment, words may not always be the appropriate choice for a specific time. A believer$$s work ethic in a secular work environment can be a strong witness for Christ. God will honor this principle, as noted in the passage, and your life will become a model for others to follow $($verse $9).$

As we work through the topics of this workshop, you will begin to see the level of detail involved in appropriately planning for the day$-$to$-$day operations of a business. Undisciplined behaviors demonstrated by managers can have a significantly negative impact on the financial future of a firm. Laziness and short$-$cuts in the area of financial management can be detrimental to the firm and all stakeholders. Paul encourages us to $$not grow weary of doing good$($verse $13).$ It is important, as we are living out a disciplined life, that we stay confident and focused on utilizing all of the resources available to us$,$ in order to be examples for Christ.

Present your thoughts about the relevance of this devotional to our anticipated learning this week in the discussion forum.