The word “work” is mentioned over 400 times in the Bible — a hundred instances more than the word “love!”

Perhaps that is because the love that God calls us to often comes through work. Diligent hands and feet are how we express love to God and others.

In the scripture above, Prince Asa of Israel has work to do. He has just returned from battle with Ethiopia. His efforts and God’s hand have led him to victory.

Now the prophet Azariah encourages him to turn his attention to a new job, one that doesn’t involve making an income. The spoils of war need to be given to God. The country needs cleared of idols. The idolaters must be brought to justice. The prophet assures the Prince that after all these efforts, God will reward him.

Work, especially unofficial assignments, quiet jobs with invisible pay, are the bulk of our daily lives. Using our time, our talents, our resources, to fix, clean, organize, listen to and rescue others, is often the work God has for us. Though it doesn’t pay a man-made wage, it reaps a reward too.

Prince Asa enjoyed a royal paycheck from God: years of peace. God’s pay for you will always be better than what money can buy.