A Day at a Time · Chapter
VI: Well and Now explained
This chapter urges readers to do their work well and promptly, drawing from Ecclesiastes 9:10 and Paul's exhortation to work heartily as unto the Lord.
What happens
This chapter urges readers to do their work well and promptly, drawing from Ecclesiastes 9:10 and Paul's exhortation to work heartily as unto the Lord. It emphasizes the importance of seizing the present moment, avoiding procrastination, and dedicating one's efforts to God, with vivid illustrations from art, war, and daily life.
Themes in this chapter
Living in the Present
The chapter strongly emphasizes doing good deeds and work now, without delay, because the night cometh and opportunities are fleeting.
Sacrifice and Duty
Illustrated through the parable of the artist painting with his heart's blood and the call to 'do your bit' with grit and determination.
Divine Presence in Everyday Life
Work is framed as service to the Lord, transforming common duties into honorable obligations to a personal living Master.
Characters to notice
- Ecclesiastes
Quoted as the source of the golden rule 'Do it well and do it now' from Ecclesiastes 9:10.
- Paul
Referenced for his teaching in Colossians: 'Whatever ye do, do it heartily as to the Lord.'
- Jesus Christ
Mentioned as the personal living Master to whom all work is dedicated, and in the closing prayer.
- R. L. Stevenson
Cited regarding stories of old English admirals inspiring bank clerks in their bookkeeping.
Key passages
“Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might, for there is no work nor device nor knowledge nor wisdom in the grave whither thou goest.”
Whatever task you have at hand, do it with all your energy, because after death there is no chance to work or plan.
The chapter's central verse from Ecclesiastes 9:10, interpreted as 'Do it well and do it now.'
“Whatever ye do, do it heartily as to the Lord.”
In everything you do, work with enthusiasm as if serving Christ directly.
Paul's exhortation from Colossians, used to elevate daily work to an act of worship.