Blog

Our teachers had their work cut out for them.

There were often days when I would be completing a worksheet, reading a chapter in class after a lecture, or finishing up a set of equations for algebra.

We called it “busy work,” and most of us rolled our eyes and complained. We begged our teachers to just let us be finished for the day so we could do what we wanted.

Because the thing we wanted to do was talk.

Occasionally, they would allow us time at the end of class to talk amongst ourselves, “as long as we kept the noise low.”

But how long did that really last?

Within minutes, we’d go back to our normal voices, everyone trying to talk over the next person, and the room would get loud. And if it persisted, it was back to the worksheet.

They knew. Busy work kept us busy. And it kept our mouths from running.

But it’s not just a problem for kids in school.

Idleness can lead to all kinds of trouble.

In Paul’s day, just like ours, idleness often led to mischief, gossip, and destructive behavior.

2 Thessalonians 3:6–12

> “But we command you, brethren, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you withdraw from every brother who walks disorderly and not according to the tradition which he received from us. For you yourselves know how you ought to follow us, for we were not disorderly among you; nor did we eat anyone’s bread free of charge, but worked with labor and toil night and day, that we might not be a burden to any of you, not because we do not have authority, but to make ourselves an example of how you should follow us.

> For even when we were with you, we commanded you this: If anyone will not work, neither shall he eat. For we hear that there are some who walk among you in a disorderly manner, not working at all, but are busybodies. Now those who are such we command and exhort through our Lord Jesus Christ that they work in quietness and eat their own bread.”

Another word for “disorderly” in this passage is “idle.”

So, what was Paul saying?

Word had come to him that there were people in the church who believed Jesus could return at any moment. Some apparently thought that meant they should stop working, enjoy life, and just wait for the Lord.

Well, wasn’t that true? Isn’t Jesus coming soon?

Yes!

But just as Paul explained, and the Lord Himself taught, idleness is not the way of a believer. When people neglect the work they’re called to do, they can easily find themselves wrapped up in gossip and foolishness that leads to sin.

The truth is, we have real work to do, not just busy work.

God has called us to join Him in His mission to reach the world with the good news of salvation in Jesus Christ. That job isn’t just for pastors or missionaries. We are all called to go and make disciples.

Because of the peace God gives us, we can rest in knowing that we don’t have to work for our salvation. Christ accomplished that work for us when He died on the cross.

But how should we, as believers and followers of Christ, spend our days in thanksgiving and honor to Him for what He has done?

Grow closer to the Lord.

“But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.” — 2 Peter 3:18

Study His Word.

“Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” — 2 Timothy 2:15

Focus on His mission.

“Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you.” — Matthew 28:19–20

Encourage others.

“Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing.” — 1 Thessalonians 5:11

Be part of a local church.

“And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.” — Hebrews 10:24–25

Pray.

“Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” — Philippians 4:6–7

“Watch and pray, lest you enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.” — Matthew 26:41

Use your gifts to serve.

“As each one has received a gift, minister it to one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.” — 1 Peter 4:10

We don’t know when Jesus will return, but we do know what He’s called us to do until that day.

There are people who need to hear the gospel. There are believers who need encouragement. There are opportunities all around us to serve, grow, pray, and make disciples.

We don’t need busy work to fill our days. We have the meaningful work of God’s kingdom before us.

So, how can you share Jesus today?

Let’s be busy about the Father’s business.

Copyright © 2026 Lifeword.org. All rights reserved. No part of this article may be reproduced or reprinted without permission in writing from Lifeword.org