June 29, 2018

Lovin’ The Work by Bob Jones



 If I had a tattoo it would read, “John 17:4”.

What? Not John 3:16? Is there any other verse in the Gospel of John that makes for a better tat?

Yep.

Father, I glorified you on earth, having accomplished the work that you gave me to do.” John 17:4 (New American Standard Bible)

John 17:4 would be a conversation starter as  a tat. “What does that stand for?”

Better still, John 17:4 is my guiding light. When I breathe my last and taste heavenly air for the first time I want to be able to echo Jesus’ words.

The phrase from the real Lord’s Prayer is my creed. God gave me work to do. Do the work.

Writing is work. It’s awesome work.

Writing won’t make you a six or even a four-figure income (mine is still in the threes) but it is good work. It’s God’s work.

I like to think that perhaps the best way to love your neighbour is to do your work. And do it well.

Work is a way we partner with God. It’s our stewardship of talent, ability and passion to God’s glory. When I write I’m doing the work God gave me to do.

How about you?

What would you get as a tat to guide you into God’s best?

Bob is a recovering perfectionist, who collects Coca-Cola memorabilia and drinks Iced Tea. His office walls are adorned with his sons’ framed football jerseys, and his library shelves, with soul food. He writes to inspire people to be real, grow an authentic faith in Jesus, enjoy healthy relationships and discover their life purpose.


Follow his writing at Pointes Of View.








4 comments:

  1. This is a great life verse. I love your idea of having your favourite verse's book and chapter as a tat. As you said, it would be a really wonderful conversation starter. Tattoos don't have the same stigma they used to, but I've decided I'm going to go through this life 'ink free'!

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  2. I am tat free...so far. Bruxy Cavey (The Meeting House) has a great tat on his left arm from Leviticus.

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  3. You made me think about work. It's good to work hard serving the Lord in whatever capacity He's given us. Good thoughts!
    From Tat-free Pam who has lots of inked-up friends and family ;)

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  4. You raise a good point, Pastor Bob. Your choice of verse is definitely something to strive for. With a verse like this "posted" in flesh and ink on your forearm, you would see it all the time. I'm more inclined to post a good verse above my desk or on the fridge, but desks and fridges are cumbersome to carry around. Wearing a verse like John 17:4 on my forearm would be "out there" where I can see it. And others can see it too. What an accountability factor there is in that! Like, Tracy, I had planned on sticking with my freckles. Hmm. . .

    I also love your thoughts on breathing "heavenly air." Thanks.


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