1 Corinthians 7:20-21
Each one should remain in the condition in which he was called. 21 Were you a bondservant when called? Do not be concerned about it. But if you can gain your freedom, avail yourself of the opportunity.)
Many people are identified by their work. While this seems like a new and particularly American phenomenon, it is neither new nor American. The reason there are people named Baker, Shoemaker, Cartwright, and Mason, is because they are descended from people who made their living in that trade centuries ago. Paul argued against circumcision for believers by saying it does not matter what your identity or status on earth is. What matters is your new identity in Christ. Whether a person is a metalworker or a slave, they now go by the name of Christian. Therefore, there was neither stigma nor status applied to their place in 1st century Roman society. The slave and the senator were equal before the Lord as sinners saved by grace. What freedom!
I spent many years in manual labor, most of it as a Christian, and I must confess to a bit of resentment at my station in life and I told the Lord about it. Just like Paul’s answer from God at the request to remove his thorn in the flesh, the grace of the Lord was sufficient for me. As soon as I accepted that, the Lord had other plans for me. Wherever the Lord has you, by all means avail yourself of opportunities, but speaking from experience, accept your place in life as the grace of God in your life.
O Heavenly Father, you have put us right where you want us at all times. Help us to be submissive to your will and grateful to you. In Jesus’ name. Amen.