6 Biblical Principles of Work
Work is a central theme in the Bible, underscored from the very beginning of the scriptural narrative. The biblical principles of work are deeply intertwined with the theological understanding of human purpose, dignity, and relationship with God. This article explores these principles, examining how work is viewed through the lens of biblical teaching.
The Lord God took man and placed him in the garden to...
The concept of work started from the very beginning of the world. God did not finish all of the creation and then tell mankind that they should sit back and enjoy the views.
“The Lord God took the man and put him in the garden of Eden to work it and keep it. ” – Genesis 2:15
One of the first God given purposes to mankind was to work and take care of his creation. He created us to have dominion over the earth (Genesis 1:28) and it is through that work that we can live meaningful and purposeful lives.
Work can take many forms and it can certainly change form over time. The work that you do as a child will change as you enter young adulthood. Over your chosen path through adulthood, work can take the form of various careers or entrepreneurship. Or, it can mean caring for children entrusted to your care.
Whatever work looks like for you, whether you find it enjoyable, hard, or challenging, know that you are fulfilling one of God’s original purposes for man in the work you do. “The sleep of the laborer is sweet, whether they eat little or much”. -Ecclesiastes 5:12
6 Biblical Principles for Work
Know Who You are Truly Accountable To
It is easy in the day to day of the daily challenges of work to focus on what is right in front of us. Meeting deadlines, putting together proposals, pleasing customers, putting out fires, performance reviews. All of the things that can distract us from the first fundamental principle: You work for God, so work as though you are reporting directly to Him.
Colossians 3:23-24 advises, “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.”
Work to Care for Yourself and Others
Christians are to work to glorify God and to provide for themselves and others. In the New Testament, Paul describes his own hard work in 2 Thessalonians 3: 7-12 as an example that should be followed so that they would not be a “burden to anyone”.
In the past, there were times when Paul relied on others for provision (Philippians 4:15-16) but when he was able he worked heartily to provide for his own needs. In the same, way Christians should strive to work in a manner that cares for their own needs and others.
See also Proverbs 28:19
When Working, do so with the best of your ability
“So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.” – 1 Corinthians 10:31
This verse reminds believers that their everyday actions, no matter how mundane, hold spiritual significance. Applying this to our work ethic, it means approaching every task with excellence, integrity, and dedication, as if performing it directly for God. By striving to do our best in all endeavors, we reflect God’s glory through our diligence and commitment, thus transforming our work into an act of worship and service.
Rest is Important, and Biblical
Rest holds a significant place in the biblical narrative, emphasizing its importance for human well-being and spiritual health. The Genesis account of the seventh day, where God rested after creation (Genesis 2:2-3), serves as a foundational example of the importance of rest. Exodus 20:8-11 commands, “Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy,” and highlights God’s own pattern of work and rest, where He created the world in six days and rested on the seventh. This commandment not only sanctifies the Sabbath but also establishes a rhythm of work and rest essential for human flourishing. In Mark 2:27, Jesus reinforces this principle, stating, “The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath,” indicating that rest is a divine provision for humanity’s benefit.
Work is a part of Stewardship
Matthew 25 contains the Parable of the Talents, which illustrates the concept of stewardship. In this parable, a master entrusts his servants with varying amounts of money before leaving on a journey, expecting them to manage his wealth wisely. Upon his return, the master rewards the servants who diligently invested and multiplied their resources, while the servant who buried his talent out of fear is reprimanded. The passage teaches that faithful stewardship is rewarded, while neglect and misuse of God-given resources result in loss and disfavor, highlighting the significant responsibility believers have in managing all that God has entrusted to them.
Work Provides Opportunities to Be Generous
Acts 20:34-35 highlights the importance of generosity and the joy it brings. In these verses, Paul reminds the Ephesian elders of his own example, saying, “You yourselves know that these hands ministered to my necessities and to those who were with me. In all things I have shown you that by working hard in this way we must help the weak and remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he himself said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.'” Paul emphasizes that generosity is not just about financial aid but also about sharing our time, effort, and resources. This spirit of generosity fosters a sense of community and compassion, encouraging believers to actively seek ways to uplift and support those in need.
Things to Avoid
Do Not Idolize Work
Ecclesiastes 2:22-23 reflects on the futility and weariness of labor that consumes a person’s life, bringing anxiety and sleepless nights, ultimately questioning the lasting value of such toil. The passage highlights the existential burden that comes with relentless striving, prompting a deeper contemplation on the true meaning and purpose of one’s efforts in life.
Do Not Cause Trouble At Work
1 Thessalonians 4:10-12 encourages believers to lead a quiet life, mind their own business, and work with their hands, as instructed. Paul emphasizes that by doing so, Christians will gain the respect of outsiders and not be dependent on anyone. This passage underscores the importance of not causing trouble at work, promoting a peaceful and diligent work ethic that reflects well on the individual and the Christian community, fostering harmony and respect in the workplace.