When it is the Lord’s work in which we rejoice, we need not be afraid of being too glad.
This quote means that when we find joy in doing work that is aligned with the divine purpose, or what we believe to be morally and ethically right, there’s no such thing as excessive happiness. The phrase “the Lord’s work” can be interpreted as actions that are positive, uplifting, and beneficial to others and society at large. It suggests that such deeds are inherently good and therefore any joy derived from them is pure, genuine and should not cause guilt or fear.
In today’s world, this idea can be applied in many ways. For instance, if someone derives immense satisfaction from volunteering at a homeless shelter because they believe it’s their moral duty to help those less fortunate than themselves (their version of “the Lord’s work”), they shouldn’t feel guilty about being too happy about it. They’re making a positive impact on the world which is something to rejoice about.
From a personal development perspective, this quote encourages individuals to seek happiness in altruistic acts or moral duties rather than material possessions or superficial achievements. It promotes the idea of finding fulfillment in contributing positively towards society or helping others – an act which not only benefits recipients but also contributes significantly towards one’s own sense of self-worth and happiness.
Moreover, it could also imply that when our actions align with our values (our own understanding of “the Lord’s work”), we experience a deep sense of satisfaction and contentment. This alignment might encourage us to pursue careers in fields we are passionate about rather than those which simply offer financial gain.
So overall this quote underlines the importance of aligning oneself with their perceived higher purpose (“the Lord’s work”) for achieving genuine joy without any fear or guilt attached to it.