Biblical Answer

What Does the Bible Say About Work?

The Bible presents a nuanced view of work, emphasizing its importance as a sacred gift from God. In the book of Ecclesiastes, work is described as a divine calling, and Christians are exhorted to put their hearts into it, seeing themselves as working for the Lord (Col. 3:23-24). This perspective transforms the way we view our occupation and profession, recognizing that work is not just a means to an end, but an end in itself, deserving of our passion and dedication.

The Bible also highlights the paradoxical nature of human work, acknowledging that it can be both a blessing and a burden. In Ecclesiastes, work is described as a gift from God, but also a source of frustration and futility (Eccles. 1:3-11). However, this does not mean that we should approach work with a sense of despair or resignation. Rather, we are called to work with intensity, joy, and a sense of purpose, knowing that our labor is not in vain, but is being accomplished by God himself (1 Cor. 15:58).

The Bible also emphasizes the importance of accountability in our work, recognizing that our labor is not just for our own benefit, but for the benefit of others. As apostles, we are called to work for the furtherance of the faith, and to produce conduct that delights God (Titus 1:1). This means that we must be mindful of our priorities, using our time and energy wisely, and avoiding the dangers of overwork and neglect of our responsibilities. Ultimately, our work is an expression of our calling as humans to rule over creation, and to bring glory to God in all that we do (Gen. 1:28).