God emphasizes the importance of work in the Bible, stating that it is honorable and a means to provide for oneself and others. It encourages believers to work diligently, with integrity, and as a service to the Lord rather than merely for human approval.
And now, in greater depth
The Bible provides valuable insight into God’s perspective on work, emphasizing its significance and purpose in our lives. In both the Old and New Testaments, God’s Word carries numerous passages and teachings that shed light on the subject.
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Work is honorable: The Bible promotes the idea that work is not just a means of earning a living, but a noble endeavor. In Colossians 3:23-24, it states, “Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ.” This highlights the importance of dedicating ourselves to our work as a form of worship to God.
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Work enables provision: Throughout the scriptures, God highlights the role of work in providing for our needs and the needs of others. In 2 Thessalonians 3:10, it states, “For even when we were with you, we would give you this command: If anyone is not willing to work, let him not eat.” This verse emphasizes the responsibility we have to work and contribute to society.
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Diligence and integrity in work: The Bible encourages believers to approach their work with diligence and integrity. Proverbs 10:4 states, “A slack hand causes poverty, but the hand of the diligent makes rich.” God values hard work and integrity, rewarding those who diligently pursue their tasks.
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Stewardship of resources: In the parable of the talents (Matthew 25:14-30), Jesus teaches about the importance of utilizing and multiplying the resources God has entrusted to us. This parable encourages believers to invest their God-given talents and abilities into their work, making the most of the opportunities presented to them.
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A holistic view of work: The Bible presents a holistic view of work, including not only paid employment but also aspects like homemaking, volunteering, and serving others. It recognizes the value of various forms of work and encourages believers to approach each with dedication and sincerity.
Quote: “Choose a job you love, and you will never have to work a day in your life.” – Confucius. This quote from the Chinese philosopher highlights the notion that finding fulfillment and enjoyment in one’s work can transform it from mere labor to a meaningful and fulfilling pursuit.
Interesting facts:
- The word “work” appears approximately 440 times in the English Standard Version (ESV) of the Bible, indicating the significance of the topic.
- The concept of work is deeply rooted in biblical narratives, starting with God’s work of creation and continuing with examples of work throughout both the Old and New Testaments.
- The Bible portrays various occupations and vocations, including shepherds, fishermen, farmers, tentmakers, and kings, among others, highlighting the diversity of work found in society.
- The book of Proverbs offers valuable wisdom on work, addressing topics such as laziness, the rewards of diligence, and the importance of seeking God’s guidance in our work.
- Jesus himself, during his earthly life, was a carpenter by trade, exemplifying the honoring of work as a means to contribute to society.
Table:
| Point | Explanation |
|---|---|
| 1. Work is honorable | Work is seen as a noble endeavor, a way to serve the Lord rather than just serving human interests. |
| 2. Work enables provision | The Bible emphasizes the responsibility to work for our provision, promoting self-sufficiency and generosity. |
| 3. Diligence and integrity in work | God encourages believers to approach their work with diligence and integrity, setting a high standard. |
| 4. Stewardship of resources | The parable of the talents teaches about investing and multiplying the resources entrusted to us by God. |
| 5. A holistic view of work | The Bible recognizes the value and importance of various forms of work, including unpaid and service-oriented work. |
See a video about the subject.
The speaker in the video reflects on his past belief that his work outside of the church was less important than his ministry within the church. However, his perspective changed when he started a full-time job and saw it as an opportunity to serve the Lord. He encourages Christians to approach their jobs with excellence and view all work as ministry. The overall message is to do everything in the name of the Lord and be grateful for the opportunity to work.
There are other points of view available on the Internet
Colossians 3:23-24 says: "Work willingly at whatever you do, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people. Remember that the Lord will give you an inheritance as your reward, and that the Master you are serving is Christ."
5 Things the Bible Says About Work
- 1. Work is a gift from God. “ The Lord God took the man and put him in the garden of Eden to work it and keep it” (Genesis 2:15).
- 2. Those who are able to work should do so.
- 3. Work like God is your boss.
Work, in general, is good. After all, it was ordained by God and Scripture tells us that everything God creates is, in and of itself, good (see James 1:17). Work done well brings a sense of personal accomplishment as we put our God-given talents and abilities to use. When our work helps others, it becomes a way to serve them.
So what does the Bible have to say about work? The Bible mentions work frequently, and there are a few general themes. First, humans are designed by God to work! It’s part of our DNA. When we do what we’re made to do, we glorify God. Second, we are called to do our work with excellence and diligence – even if we don’t like the job or our boss!
God created us to work. Not in a sadistic sense to do his bidding or face his wrath. But to subdue the earth and have dominion over every living creature (Gen. 1:28). In other words, all of life, culture, and work is to reflect the beauty and glory of God.
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What did God say about work in the Bible?
Colossians 3:22 says, “You who are servants who are owned by someone, obey your owners. Work hard for them all the time, not just when they are watching you. Work for them as you would for the Lord because you honor God.” When we obey the authority figures in our life, we are ultimately serving Christ.
Why is work so important to God?
Answer will be: Work is an essential part of our humanity.
One of the most important ways we do this is in the way that we work. God is a working, creating God (John 5:17). As his image-bearers, our mandate is to subdue the earth and fill it with his glory (Gen. 1:27).
Where in the Bible does it say God is doing a work in you?
Philippians 1:6; “being confident of this, that He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”
Does God use us to do his work?
Response: God uses all kinds of gifts and abilities for His good purpose. He gives us the Holy Spirit to empower us, grow us and use us. He will take your everyday obedience to show His virtues to others and grow them into something beautiful for His Kingdom.
What does the Bible say about working for the Lord?
The Bible tells us that all Christians are ultimately working for the Lord. Paul wrote, “ whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God” ( 1 Corinthians 10:31). Whether you’re making peanut butter sandwiches for little ones, typing emails in a cubicle, or scrubbing toilets, your hard work brings glory to God.
What does the Bible say about careers?
Response to this: Bible verses about Careers. Romans 12:4-8 ESV / 8 helpful votes Helpful Not Helpful. For as in one body we have many members, and the members do not all have the same function, so we, though many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another.
What does the Bible say about work ethics?
The Bible also teaches us how to be self-reliant as we view work as a means to rely on your own and cultivate the soil to sustain our own needs. Ephesians 4:28 , “Let him who steal no longer, but rather let him labor, working with his hands what is good, that he may have something to give him who has need.”
What does the Bible say about working KJV?
The answer is: Six days you shall labor, and do all your work, but the seventh day is a Sabbath to the Lord your God. On it you shall not do any work, you, or your son, or your daughter, your male servant, or your female servant, or your livestock, or the sojourner who is within your gates” (Exodus 20:8-10).