The Oldest Occupation

"The Lord God took man and put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and take care of it."

- Genesis 2:15 / NASV

We all have hear the standard thought that the sex trade is the "oldest profession" in the world.  That is untrue on a couple of points.  For one, man started working before sin entered the world; and second, man's work was in the garden.  So I guess we could say that farming is the oldest profession.

                The point I wish to make is that we were all created to work.  Work is not a punishment or result of the fall from grace.  Work was given to man in paradise and it was a joy to him.  So it can be for us today.  Working, or earning our living gives us a sense of fulfillment, purpose and contribution.  No one likes to feel like they need to be taken care of.  This is why those who are unemployed suffer depression and the feeling of being worthless.

                Here is the good news, you are not worthless, you have great value to those around you and mostly to God.  Just because you may not have employment right now does not mean you cannot work and contribute.  Your abilities are within you, not in the work you do.  Find what your gifting is and get out and use it.  You can find a job, you can make your own way, you can create your own work. 

                Remember that you are of great value.  The world needs you.  You were created for such a time as this.  Never buy the lie that says you have to surrender to the circumstances you are in.  God gave you work as a gift.  Use that give and God will do the rest.

                Always remember that you matter to the world.  God placed you here to make a difference and that difference is good.  You possess the qualities of a real success-minded person, which are to: Be your best.  Love God.  Have good manners. Discover the unknown.  Change the world.

John Patrick Hickey is an author, speaker, and Life Coach. To read more from John Patrick Hickey or to get his books, training and book him to speak to your church, business or group, visit our website at http://www.growthcenter.net or www.johnpatrickhickey.com.   © 2014 John Patrick Hickey