Psalm 90:17: Establishing the Work of Our Hands
Seeking Divine Favor in Our Professional Pursuits
In the often bustling and demanding world of professional life, we strive to achieve, to create, and to leave a mark that matters. Amidst this quest, Psalm 90:17 speaks a timeless truth: “May the favor of the Lord our God rest on us; establish the work of our hands for us— yes, establish the work of our hands.” These words, penned long ago, offer a profound reminder that God’s presence and blessing are vital not only to our spiritual lives but also to our professional endeavors.
The Gift of God’s Favor in Our Work
The psalmist begins with a plea for God’s favor to rest upon us. In the professional realm, favor might manifest as opportunities, relationships, and the resources we need to succeed. Yet, at its core, God’s favor is about alignment, aligning our goals, motives, and efforts with His will. It is a reminder to ask: Is what we pursue honoring Him? Are we building not only for personal gain but for purposes that reflect His goodness and glory?
When the favor of the Lord is upon us, our work gains a deeper dimension. It transcends mere productivity or profit and becomes a means of serving others, contributing to society, and reflecting God’s character. His favor is the unseen hand that opens doors we cannot, that strengthens us in moments of weakness, and that sustains us when challenges arise.
Establishing the Work of Our Hands
The psalmist’s repetition, “establish the work of our hands for us - yes, establish the work of our hands”, is not accidental. It emphasizes the deep human longing for permanence and impact. In professional terms, we desire our efforts to be meaningful, to produce results that endure beyond us. Yet this verse reminds us that true establishment comes from God.
To establish means to make firm, secure, and lasting. No matter how skilled or diligent we are, our work can feel fleeting or fragile without a foundation in God. When we invite Him into our professional lives, He brings stability and purpose. He takes what we build and anchors it in something eternal.
Applying Psalm 90:17 to Professional Life
So how do we, as professionals, live out the truth of Psalm 90:17 in practical ways? Here are a few reflections to consider:
1. Seek God’s Guidance
Begin each day or project with prayer, asking for God’s direction and favor. When we invite Him into the process, we acknowledge our dependence on His wisdom rather than solely relying on our expertise.
2. Work with Excellence
God’s favor does not negate our responsibility; it empowers it. Strive to work with excellence, integrity, and diligence, knowing that these qualities honor Him and create a vessel for His blessing.
3. Align Your Goals with God’s Purpose
Evaluate the "why" behind your work. Are your goals motivated by service, creativity, and making a positive impact? When our work aligns with God’s values: justice, compassion, stewardship, it becomes a reflection of His kingdom.
4. Trust God with the Outcome
There will be moments when our efforts seem fruitless or when success feels out of reach. In these times, trust that God is the one who truly establishes our work. He sees the bigger picture, and His timing is perfect.
5. Celebrate God’s Faithfulness
When you experience success, do not forget to turn your gratitude to God. Recognize His hand in your achievements and use your platform or influence to bless others.
The Eternal Perspective
Finally, Psalm 90 reminds us that life itself is fleeting “Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom” (Psalm 90:12). As professionals, it is easy to become consumed by the pressures and ambitions of the present. Yet, this verse encourages us to lift our eyes to eternity. The ultimate measure of our work is not its temporary acclaim, but its alignment with God’s eternal purposes.
When we ask God to establish the work of our hands, we are entrusting our careers, projects, and aspirations to Him. We are acknowledging that while our efforts matter, their ultimate significance lies in His hands. And in doing so, we find a profound reassurance: that the labor we offer to God is never in vain.
May we carry these truths into our professional lives, seeking His favor, working with excellence, and trusting Him to establish the work of our hands. Amen.