“He makes grass grow for the cattle, and plants for people to cultivate—bringing forth food from the earth: wine that gladdens human hearts, oil to make their faces shine, and bread that sustains their hearts.”
—Psalm 104:14-15 (NIV)
In many churches, CEOs, entrepreneurs, and industry leaders are often invited to share how they integrate faith into their workplaces. Their stories inspire us, demonstrating how faith can shape decisions, leadership, and innovation. As professionals in the tech industry, we tend to admire those who stand on stage, those who are driving change, those with influence.
But Psalm 104 reminds us that while we look up to great leaders, we must also remember to look down and see those who serve us, those who sustain us, and those through whom God provides for our daily lives.
We enjoy delicious meals but rarely think about the chefs sweating in the kitchen.
We raise our glasses in celebration but overlook the hands that planted, harvested, and served the wine.
We immerse ourselves in innovation, coding, and future planning, but do we ever notice the workers who clean our offices, prepare our food, and keep our lives running smoothly?
In the eyes of the world, these tasks may seem insignificant. But in God’s eyes, every act that nourishes, brings joy, and sustains life is worthy of celebration.
The Joy and Abundance in Everyday Work
Psalm 104:14-15 does not just describe God’s provision of food—it reveals how human labor, in partnership with God’s creation, brings forth joy, beauty, and fulfillment:
🍷 Wine that gladdens the heart—not just a drink, but a symbol of community, joy, and shared celebration. Behind every glass of wine are farmers, winemakers, and workers who deliver it to our tables. This is not just a product of labor; it is a gift of joy from God.
🌿 Oil that makes faces shine—not merely a commodity but a source of nourishment, healing, and dignity. The process of growing, pressing, and refining oil reminds us that God’s provision extends beyond survival; He desires for us to flourish.
🍞 Bread that sustains the heart—more than a meal, it is daily strength that enables us to keep going. Behind every loaf is the sweat of farmers, bakers, and merchants. It is a testament to God’s daily provision.
None of these things are given to us automatically; they come through the hands of many. And each one is a miracle worth celebrating.
A High-Tech World, Yet God’s Grace in the Simple Things
In the tech industry, we are trained to look upward—to admire those who set the vision, build the future, and push the boundaries of innovation. But Psalm 104 reminds us: true wisdom is not only about creating the future but also about learning to give thanks and celebrate the present.
We might develop cutting-edge technologies, yet fail to say “thank you” to the barista who makes our coffee.
We might work on world-changing projects, yet ignore the delivery worker who brings us lunch in the rain.
We might solve complex problems with AI, yet fail to acknowledge the janitor who keeps our office clean.
Technology makes the world more efficient, but it is the unseen labor of others that allows our lives to function smoothly.
Psalm 104 tells us that God not only provides for our basic needs—He gives us wine for joy, oil for radiance, and bread for strength. This means that He doesn’t just want us to survive; He wants us to live abundantly, with gratitude and celebration.
Application: From Admiring Leaders to Appreciating the Ordinary
The next time your company invites an industry leader to give a talk, be inspired, but also ask yourself: Can I also recognize the people who make my daily life possible?
✅ Before eating, pause to consider who made the meal possible.
✅ At a coffee shop, smile and say “thank you” to the barista.
✅ In a restaurant, express genuine gratitude to the servers.
✅ In your office, acknowledge the cleaning staff with kindness.
The world may only celebrate innovation, but God teaches us to cherish the ordinary. The greatest blessings are often hidden in the smallest, most overlooked places.
Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for the joy and abundance in everyday life. As I pursue achievement and innovation, help me to see the beauty in the simple gifts You provide. Give me a heart of gratitude so that I do not take for granted those who serve, provide, and sustain my life. May I live out the message of Psalm 104—not only working with excellence but also celebrating the blessings You have given in my daily life. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Devotion for busy working people 