Labor for the Lord

"The Tekoites repaired [the wall]; but their nobles put not their necks to the work of their Lord" (Nehemiah 3:5).  "I have set the LORD always before me: because He is at my right hand, I shall not be moved.  Therefore my heart is glad" (Psalm 16:8,9).  "The LORD trieth the hearts" (Proverbs 17:3).  "Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven… Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven" (Matthew 5:12,16).

The laborers upon the wall

Had worked with gladness in their heart,

But this was not true of them all,

For nobles did not do their part. 

Let not the attitude of some

Distract us from our Lord's command. 

Let Christ before us daily come

With gladness strengthening our hand. 

The Lord can see our motivation;

He tries the heart and knows the ways

Of those rejoicing in salvation

With grateful hearts that give Him praise. 

O Lord, we labor to proclaim  

The grace that brought You from above,

So we may glorify Your name

And shine the light of heaven's love.