A homeless man frequently stations himself near a major intersection and holds up a hand written sign which reads: "Will Work For Food". Several have attempted to offer him work. One such offer was reported by an investigative reporter for a local TV news department. All have been refused. This man, despite what his sign says, is looking for a handout - not for work. We are disappointed and disgusted by the situation. The Lord has something to say about it, too: "If anyone will not work, neither let him eat" (2 Thess. 3:10).

There is a spiritual parallel to this sad tale. It goes like this: Christians assemble to worship God. They unite their voices to sing:

"Lord Send Me"

"I want to be a soul winner for Jesus"

"We'll work till Jesus comes"

"I want to be a worker for the Lord".

But, when challenged with opportunities to serve God, they hold back and do nothing. Bible study is neglected, prayer is abandoned, worship assemblies and special classes are not attended, financial support is not forthcoming, personal work efforts are largely ignored. Do you see it? Isn't this like the homeless man who says he wants work but will not accept it?

There are too many who want the rewards of Christianity without doing any work. They're looking for a spiritual "handout". They will not receive it. God views the spiritually lazy in the same way He views the physically lazy: no work, no reward.

- by Greg Gwin

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