“The Lord God took the man and put him in the garden of Eden to work it and keep it” (Genesis 2:15).
Since the beginning, work has been part of God’s plan for humanity. He created it. That means you can view the act of working as a gift, even if you don’t love your job.
Our profession is an act of worship to our maker. We are called to deliver excellence in all that we do. It is not to please the boss or create a favorable impression or not even for a promotion. He has placed us where we are to reflect him. We represent him, and it is our responsibility to deliver excellence in everything we do.
-Show up, work diligently, do your best, be honest, show love and respect to all.
It is so important to love your neighbor. However, if you work part time or full time, then your closest neighbor for 20 to 40 plus hours per week is the person in the cubical next to you. They are your next-door neighbor. That means you will have the opportunity to talk with them about Jesus and let Christ shine through you.
Throughout Scripture God communicates how important our work is to Him. Below are just a few verses that contain God's wisdom and perspective on our work, and how we should conduct ourselves while performing our work, along with a practical way you can apple these verses today.
1. “So, whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” – 1 Corinthians 10:31
Work is a part of life and it's meant to be done with a positive attitude. Be intentional about the way you handle each task and treat each person at work today with grace and love.
2. “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.” – Colossians 3:23-24
These words can be especially encouraging—and challenging—if you don’t like your job or have trouble getting along with your boss. Your hard work brings glory to God.
3. “In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” – Matthew 5:16
Let your faith in God show through the way you treat people, the peace you operate from even in the midst of chaos, and the confidence you have in Christ.
4. “Commit your work to the LORD, and then your plans will succeed.”– Proverbs 16:3
God wants us to partner with Him in our work – not do it on our own. Turn to God with the work you have to accomplish and pray that He gives you strength and direction before you take the next step.
5. “Work hard, but not just to please your masters when they are watching. As slaves of Christ, do the will of God with all your heart. Work with enthusiasm, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people.” – Ephesians 6:6
Not all work is fun, but God wants us to do everything we do with enthusiasm and excellence because we do it to please Him. Identify opportunities to have a positive influence on the people you work with by doing the mundane tasks with enthusiasm.
6. “And also, that every man should eat and drink, and enjoy the good of all his labor, it is the gift of God.” – Ecclesiastes 3:13
God gives us work so we can enjoy life. Be sure to take time each day to enjoy the good things that work makes possible in your life, such as time with family and friends.
7. “May the favor of the Lord our God rest upon us; establish the work of our hands for us – yes, establish the work of our hands.” – Psalm 90:17
Remember that God cares about your work. He uses it to build His kingdom and for His glory. Pray about your work every day and ask for God’s favor.
8. “He must labor, performing with his own hands what is good, so that he will have something to share with one who has need.” – Ephesians 4:28
God not only wants us to partner with Him in our work, but also in what we do with our earnings, which includes giving to those who are in need. Notice who God has placed in your path to help with a financial or material need and help when you can.
Prayer: Lord, help me to always remember that I work for you, and you deserve nothing but the best from me. Help me to always strive for excellence in all that I do. Amen