When you hear the word “work,” do you tend to associate it with words like tiring, burdensome, or frustrating?
Personal experiences and cultural factors often influence our perception of work. For instance, the 1981 Loverboy ballad “Everybody’s Working for the Weekend” reflects the desire to merely endure the daily grind only to enjoy time in between work weeks.
However, if we look to the Bible, we see that work was originally part of God’s good design.
In the Bible’s opening chapter, we learn that God himself worked: “In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth.” (Genesis 1:1) After completing his creation, He proclaimed it “very good” (Genesis 1:31).
God’s first instructions to humanity were to join with him in working the earth and caring for it. (Genesis 1:28; 2:15)
Work existed before sin entered the world and was never intended to be a burden in itself.
While there are times when work feels effortless, it can also be frustrating, as a result of sin’s curse. (Genesis 3:16–19)
The book of Ecclesiastes reflects this tension, stating: “I considered all that my hands had done... and behold, all was vanity.” (Ecclesiastes 2:11) Yet it also acknowledges the goodness of work: “There is nothing better... than to enjoy one’s toil.” (Ecclesiastes 2:24)
Despite sin’s impact, work retains its value, and God actively works to restore it. Jesus said, “My Father is working until now, and I am working.” (John 5:17)
Throughout Scripture, work is portrayed as a means of experiencing blessing. Psalm 128:2 states, “You shall eat the fruit of the labor of your hands; you shall be blessed.”
Work is not only for personal blessing but also for the blessing of others. Philippians 2:4 reminds us, “Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.”
Acts 20:35 emphasizes the blessing of helping the weak: “It is more blessed to give than to receive.”
We are called to use our work for the good of others: “To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good.” (1 Corinthians 12:7)
John Stott defines work as “the expenditure of manual or mental energy in service, which brings fulfillment to the worker, benefits the community, and brings glory to God.”
When God’s glory is the ultimate aim, work works for a higher purpose and will never be in vain: “Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain.” (1 Corinthians 15:58)
This Labor Day, may we reflect on the goodness of work and consider how we can use our talents and gifts for the good of others, our community, our world, and to the glory of God.
“Whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.” (1 Corinthians 10:31)
