The ox always represents labour in the illustrations of the Old Testament. God has ordained that fruit follows labour, and that rest comes after hard work. There is work to be done in the kingdom of God and great and lasting blessing will come from it, for our labour is not in vain in the Lord. But for some, this is too much. We might think of a believer with a measured tread. ‘I am glad I am a Christian. I am glad I am going to heaven. I am glad my soul is saved and I have nothing to fear in the last day of life. I am thankful I see through the world in some measure and I understand the purpose of my being here. But I don't see the point in dashing about like some people do. I don't see the point of teaching Sunday School and having all that extra labour and, as for going out into the district and visiting homes to tell them the gospel - those who do this are a bit fanatical. I will come along just once on a Sunday and I will order my life very nicely and comfortably, and look after my career.’ To give themselves to the Lord’s work overmuch would reduce their opportunity to enjoy the innocent pleasures of life, therefore they are against making an excessive sacrifice. To justify themselves they say, ‘Those people are crazy the way they tithe and serve. That level of service may be appropriate for apostles, but not for ordinary church members. Why should I make myself the butt of jokes at work by my over-zealous witness?’ Yes, but you won't be used of God, and you won't have much fruit, and one day you will feel so miserable and so empty and shallow, and maybe God will even punish you for it. How much this measured attitude misses out on, and how much less will have been achieved for the Lord at the end of such a life!