“The Lord God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and take care of it.”
Work is an essential part of life, but it sometimes feels burdensome, frustrating, or meaningless. In a world where careers are competitive and insecure, many struggle with nagging questions: Why am I doing this? Why is work so hard? Is there any real purpose in it? But the scripture reveals that work is not just about making a living; it is part of our divine calling. We often forget that our calling may not necessarily be to church ministries; Daniel was an administrator and government official, Gideon was called into the military, David was a king, and Aquila and Priscilla were builders. If we carefully consider the major characters in the Bible, we will realise that work is a way to bring God’s justice, peace, and creativity into the world. It is a way of participating in His work on earth.
God established work from the beginning. In Genesis 2:15, He placed Adam in the Garden of Eden “to work it and take care of it.” This was before sin entered the world, which tells us that work was originally meant to be fulfilling and good. It was designed as a way to reflect God’s creativity, diligence, and order. Whether we are building, teaching, serving, or leading, our work can glorify God when done with the right heart. Colossians 3:23 reminds us, “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.”
Yet, we know that work is not always joyful. After the Fall, labour became toilsome. In Genesis 3:17-19, God told Adam that work would now come through painful toil, sweat, and struggle. The reality of this curse is felt in job frustrations, stress, insecurity, and the feeling that our efforts often go unrecognised. However, while the Fall corrupted work, it did not remove its purpose. Even in a broken world, work remains a means through which God shapes us and provides for us.
Difficulties in work can serve a higher purpose. They teach us endurance, humility, and trust in God. Romans 5:3-5 reminds us that “suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.” Joseph, Daniel, David, and others in the Bible experienced life, gifts, and virtues while at work. When work feels overwhelming, we are invited to shift our perspective. Instead of seeing it as a burden, we can see it as a way to grow spiritually and reflect Christ to those around us. Jesus Himself worked as a carpenter before beginning His ministry, demonstrating that all honest work—whether prestigious or humble—has value in God’s eyes.
If work feels unfulfilling, we must remember that its ultimate purpose is not just about personal achievement but about serving God and others. Proverbs 16:3 says, “Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and He will establish your plans.” This means surrendering our career ambitions, struggles, and uncertainties to Him, trusting that He will lead us where we need to be. When we work with integrity, diligence, and faith, God uses our efforts to impact lives, provide for our needs, and fulfil His greater plans.
So today, instead of seeing work as merely a job, see it as an opportunity for worship. Whether in a thriving career or a season of struggle, offer your work to God. He is present in every task, every challenge, and every success. May you work not for mere human recognition but as an act of devotion to the God who called you to it.
In John 5:17, Jesus says, “My Father is working until now, and I am working.” Are you?! …
Author
kay.alli@legalview.co.uk