Ora et Labora: Start Success with Prayer

Many of us may already be familiar with the motto ora et labora—“pray and work”. Ora et labora refers to the principle of praying and working practiced by medieval monks based on Regula Benedicti. This instructional book was written by Benedict of Nursia in the 5th century AD. Its principle endured for fifteen centuries and became one of the guidelines of modern Christianity.

The question is, do we still practice this motto? Could it be that the opposite happens instead, namely that we work first and only then pray? Or perhaps we work without praying. There are also those who only pray without doing anything.

Considering the importance of ora et labora, let us understand more deeply how this motto is applied in daily life.

The Right Priority in Ora et Labora

“... that they should seek Him and perhaps reach out for Him and find Him, though He is not far from each one of us.” – Acts 17:27

In the past, before I knew the purpose and priorities of my life, I did not really understand the meaning of ora et labora. I considered it nothing more than a saying or a wise phrase.

After I became a Christian, the priorities of my life changed. Seeking the Lord is my personal journey with Him. One way is by building a relationship through prayer, which becomes my top priority every day.

Ora et labora can be applied effectively as long as our priorities are right. Why? Because, with the right priorities, we can understand what needs to be done in life. In that way, ora et labora is no longer just a motto, but a good habit that underlies all our activities.

Begin the Day with Prayer

“A song of ascents. Of David. LORD, my heart is not proud, nor are my eyes haughty; I do not concern myself with things too great or too wondrous for me.” – Psalm 131:1

If the words ora et labora are reversed, the meaning becomes “work and pray.” Then why not just write it that way?

Praying and working are two actions that are closely related. To meet our basic daily needs, we need to work. However, do not forget: the earth and all it contains, including our lives, belong to the Lord, God the Creator and Provider. That means our work and everything else are gifts from the Lord. Beginning the day with prayer will keep us humble before God.

Prayer keeps us from becoming ambitious and forgetting the Lord in every work that we do.

Commit to the Lord

“A song of ascents. Of Solomon. Unless the LORD builds the house, those who build it labor in vain; unless the LORD watches over the city, the watchman stays awake in vain..” – Psalm 127:1

Perhaps we think that everything we gain is purely the result of hard work. There is some truth in this, considering that in those achievements there are our determination, sweat, and tears.

However, have we ever reflected that there is a power greater than ourselves, even greater than the universe? A Being who is able to provide what we need?

Our God is not only the Giver, but also the Owner of all things. So, do our part and leave the results to the Lord.

Let us get used to praying before we act or work. Not only focusing on asking for results, but also asking to be changed into people who are increasingly humble before the Lord. Praying without working or working without praying will end in futility. By remembering and practicing ora et labora, surely the Lord will bless your efforts!

* Church GKDI is currently present in 35 cities. We hold Bible Study activities in every area; if you need information or would like to get involved, contact us at contact Church GKDI Official: WhatsApp 0821 2285 8686 or Facebook / Instagram GKDI Official

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