Biblical Answer

The Purpose of Work Biblically

Purpose of Work: A Larger Perspective

The Bible views work as a calling from God, and exhorts us to put our hearts into it, seeing ourselves as working for the Lord, not any human master (Col. 3:23-24). This perspective connects work with a larger purpose, and gains satisfaction. Christians are called to see work as part of their faith, and as a means to glorify God.

God's Purpose in Work

From a biblical point of view, work has three purposes related to God, others, and self. John Stott defined it this way: "Work is the expenditure of our powers and skills in the service of others, and of God." Our purpose should be to display the glory of God in human life, to live a life hidden with Christ in God in our everyday human conditions (Colossians 3:3). Our human relationships and work are to be a reflection of God's love and character.

God's Sovereignty in Work

The Bible teaches that God is sovereign over all creation, including our work. He is the one who gives us our abilities, skills, and talents, and He is the one who enables us to do our work (1 Corinthians 12:6). Our work is not just about personal achievement or success, but about serving God and others. As Paul wrote, "Whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God" (1 Corinthians 10:31). We should seek to understand God's purpose in our work, and be wholehearted about it, as if we were serving the Lord, not people (Ephesians 6:7). By doing so, we will find satisfaction and fulfillment in our work, and we will be able to glorify God in all that we do.