The Juggling Act

“If anyone does not provide for his own, and especially for those of his household, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever.” — 1 Timothy 5:8 (NKJV)

There was a young man in his twenties who had recently gotten married. He worked for a street sign business owned by a man who expected total commitment from his employees. The business was successful, and the boss paid his workers generously—but he expected them to work from early morning to late at night, six days a week.

The young man began to feel the weight of these demands. When he got married, he had envisioned a life with his wife and future family—time spent together, building relationships, and enjoying those precious moments. But this job left no room for that. He went to his boss and said, “I’d like to adjust my schedule so I can spend more time with my family.”

His boss responded, “You’re not committed. If you stick with me, like my other employees have done, one day I’ll sell this business, and you’ll receive an incredible bonus. But you need to dedicate yourself to the company—early mornings, late nights, and long hours.”

The young man realized this wasn’t the life he wanted. He walked away from the job, moved to another part of the country with his wife, and started his own business—one where he could set his schedule and prioritize his family.

This story reflects the truth of 1 Timothy 5:8. God calls us to provide for our families, but provision goes beyond financial needs. It includes being present emotionally, relationally, and spiritually. The young man understood that providing for his family meant more than just earning a paycheck—it meant making time for the people God had entrusted to him.

Reflection Question: Are you truly providing for all of your family’s needs, or are you focusing only on financial provision?

Father, thank You for the gift of work and the ability to provide for my family. Help me to see that provision means more than finances—it includes my time, love, and presence. Teach me to balance these priorities and honor You in the way I care for my family. In Jesus’ Name, amen.

Adapted from: "Balancing Work and Family" - https://www.joshfranklin.org/media/jkhvmcg/5-balancing-work-and-family