What Does the Bible Say About Work — In Biblical Context

The Biblical Context

God worked in creation and rested (Genesis 2:2), then gave Adam work in Eden: 'The LORD God took the man, and put him into the garden of Eden to dress it and to keep it' (2:15). Work is not a curse — it existed before the fall. The curse made work toilsome (3:17-19), but work itself remains a gift. Paul commanded, 'If any would not work, neither should he eat' (2 Thessalonians 3:10). He modeled tent-making alongside ministry (Acts 18:3). Colossians 3:23-24 transforms all work into worship: 'Whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men; Knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ.' Proverbs extensively commends diligence: 'The hand of the diligent maketh rich' (10:4). The ant is praised: 'Go to the ant, thou sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise' (6:6). The Proverbs 31 woman works vigorously — 'She seeketh wool, and flax, and worketh willingly with her hands' (31:13). Ecclesiastes says, 'There is nothing better, than that a man should rejoice in his works; for that is his portion' (3:22). Work has dignity because God works, and we bear His image.

Where It Sits in Scripture

Supporting Passages