Early in my career as a software engineer I had a job at a small game company. I programmed games for a new thing called the Internet. I absolutely loved my job.

I was the only one in that office working specifically on Internet games so I worked by myself, for the most part. I had control over the game design, the art, the text, and I did all the programming and testing. It was fun and rewarding. I was annoyed by weekends and would look forward to getting back to work on Mondays.

I’d never felt that way in a job before. And sadly, I haven’t been lucky enough to find such a job since.

I think heaven will be a place where I can work hard doing things I love doing. The fruits of my labor will be useful and appreciated. Having a feeling of purpose, accomplishment, capability and joy, what could be better?

God wants this beautiful feeling for His children. It was His original design in the garden. Only after we chose power and control instead of obedience to God did we realize we also chose a grueling life of striving and struggle.

But God doesn’t want to leave us there.

“For it is God who is working in you both to will and to work according to his good purpose.” ‭‭(Philippians‬ ‭2‬:‭13‬, ‭CSB‬‬)

God has a beautiful plan and wants me to work with Him to accomplish it. The best part is that He wants me to do the things I already love doing and use the skills and talents I already have as part of that work.

Because He loves me.

Dear God,

Thank you for your generosity in providing ways to obey you and bring you glory that I actually enjoy. I know life isn’t all roses and rainbows in this fallen world, but I’m so grateful that in the midst of my striving, you provide opportunities to serve you in ways that fill us both with joy.