THE BIBLE AND WORK

"Do you see a man skilled in his work? He will stand before kings; he will not stand before obscure men."— Proverbs 22:29 (ESV)

Work Is Not a Curse—It’s a Calling

From the very beginning, God placed work at the center of human purpose. In Genesis, before sin entered the world, God gave Adam a job: to cultivate and keep the Garden of Eden. Work was—and still is—a part of God’s perfect design.

It’s easy to forget this in a culture that often sees work as just a means to an end. But Scripture reminds us that work is good. It reflects the character of a working God. After all, the very first verse in the Bible introduces God not as a philosopher or a poet, but as a Creator at work.

“In the beginning, God created…” — Genesis 1:1

Each day of creation was a workday for God. And after six days of work, He rested—setting a divine pattern for us to follow.

Created to Co-Create with God

As image-bearers of God, we are invited to partner with Him in stewarding His creation. Whether you’re designing software, teaching children, managing a household, or running a business, your work matters to God.

Work is not merely what we do to earn a paycheck—it is one of the ways we reflect God’s image and contribute to His ongoing creation.

Colossians 3:23 urges us:

“Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men.”

Imagine the difference in our daily outlook if we approached every task—big or small—as an offering to God.

Work Done Well Glorifies God

Proverbs 22:29 reminds us that excellence in work leads to influence. A skilled worker stands before kings—not because they seek recognition, but because their dedication and diligence open doors.

This doesn’t mean we chase perfectionism. Instead, we pursue excellence because God is excellent. Our work becomes worship when we do it with integrity, with purpose, and with love.

God doesn’t measure our success by titles or salaries. He delights in faithfulness. Whether you’re seen or unseen, He sees your labor and promises a reward.

Jesus Worked—And He Still Does

Jesus spent most of His earthly life as a carpenter. Before preaching sermons and performing miracles, He worked with His hands in a small town. He honored the dignity of ordinary labor.

Even now, Jesus is at work—interceding for us and preparing a place for us (John 14:2-3). Work, in the kingdom, never loses its value.

What Now?

1. How do you view your daily work? As a burden—or as a blessing?

2. In what ways can you reflect God's character through your job?

3. Are there areas where God is inviting you to bring more excellence, faith, or gratitude into your work?

   
   

Lord, thank You for the gift of work. Help me to see it as a calling and not a curse. May I work with excellence, integrity, and joy, knowing that You are glorified in my labor. Teach me to honor You in every task and trust that my work has eternal value. Amen.

Work isn’t just something we do—it’s part of who we were made to be. When we work with God, for God, and through God, our everyday efforts become acts of worship that echo into eternity.

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New Covenant Assembly Winnipeg is a church with a vision to raise a mighty people who are fully committed to Jesus Christ.