with them in their own hearts, and will be to them an eternal reward.
Such, then, is the meaning of "labors," in the internal sense. It is said six days, because the number six, in the Word, signifies a state of combat, while the number seven signifies the holy and happy state which results from the combat and victory. It is added, "And do all thy work;" because, while man is engaged in the "work" of regeneration, he has to "do" and to strive as of himself; he has to force himself; he has to deny himself, and take up his cross. He goes, for instance, to the Divine Word and learns a commandment, "Thou shalt not steal," "Thou shalt not commit adultery," or some other of the Lord's commandments. Then he has to bring these commandments into act by effort and striving and struggle, just as if he were alone, and had no one to help him. The Lord leaves him apparently to himself, in order that he may strive as of himself, for only in that way can a new character be formed within him. Thus, it is said, "do thy work," as if the work of regeneration were accomplished by man himself; and so it is, to appearance; hence says the Apostle, "Work out your own salvation with fear and trembling."[1] Yet it is only an appearance: it is, in truth, the Lord who does the work; for He alone can overcome the mighty powers of hell who are seeking our destruction, and who must be fought with in conquering any evil of our hearts. Nevertheless, since we must strive as of ourselves, it is called "our work." But when the work is completed—when the
