Thinking Biblically About Work

The reality of work affects everyone in some form or fashion.

Some of us will go to work everyday spending 40 + hours laboring at a place of employment for their employer.

Some of us have been called to work in the home as wives and mothers laboring tirelessly for their families. Some of us are no longer able work because of limitations or don’t have to work a job because of retirement. But, no matter who you are, the daily labor of providing for your household needs is a major part of your life.

Given the prominent role that work plays in our lives, it is crucial that we think biblical about our work.

Worldly Perspectives on Work

It should come as no surprise that the world has its own ways of thinking about the subject of work, many of which are as unhelpful as they are subtle. Here are a few worldly views of thinking that you need to be on the lookout for:

• Work is what we avoid - This is a form of laziness that views work as an affliction rather than a provision.

• Work is what we live for - This is a form of idolatry that views work as the undisputed top priority in all of life.

• Work is what defines us - This is a form of worldliness that views work as a way to establish our earthly status.

• Work is what gratifies us - This is a form of selfishness that views work as way to fulfill desires not responsibilities

• Work is what validates us - This is a form of fear of man that views work as a way to impress other people.

• Work is what sustains us - This is a form of self-reliance that trusts in work instead of God for provision.

• Work is what consumes us - This is a form of idolatry that replaces the Lordship of Christ with the preeminence of work.

Some Questions to Consider:

• Have you ever stopped to consider your own view of work?

• Which of these worldly perspectives do you think is the most common in your experience?

• How have you seen these worldly perspectives impact the way that you think about work?

• What is the most tempting worldly perspective on work for you? Why is this area more of a battle than others?