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Key Bible Verse: Lazy people are a pain to their employer. They are like smoke in the eyes or vinegar that sets the teeth on edge (Proverbs 10:26). Bonus Reading: Proverbs 10:4; 12:24, 27; 15:18; 18:9

As a high school senior, I planned to attend the state university near our town. But the following summer, about three weeks before classes started, I decided to attend our denominational college in another state for one year. When I registered, I arranged my courses so I could transfer expediently to the state school. But I fell in love with my church-related school and decided to return.

However, I had a problem. The previous summer I'd worked at the lumber mill where my father was employed. I'd been a rather indifferent worker, and that hadn't given me a good rating with the foreman. Whether or not I'd be rehired the next summer was a serious question. I needed that job if I wanted to attend what was now the college of my choice. That need caused me to grow and mature in an important way.

I wrote the lumber-mill management a letter to ask if they'd hire me during the Christmas vacation. They did. On the very first day on the job, the foreman told me that my performance during Christmas could have a bearing on whether I'd be hired the next summer. Needless to say, I worked hard, and I was rehired for the summer.

—Dale Orkeny in College Faith

Adapted from College Faith (Andrews University Press, (2002)) by permission.

Prayer for the Week

Lord, don't let me just put in time. I want to put energy and passion into my work.

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