Finding Purpose In Our Work
Finding Purpose in Our Work
Work is such a huge part of our lives. Whether you’re running a business, raising kids, studying at school, or clocking in each day at a job site, most of us spend the majority of our time working. That’s why it’s so important to ask: Does God care about my work? Does my job have a greater purpose?
The Bible gives us a clear answer: YES!
Colossians 3:23–24 reminds us:
“Work willingly at whatever you do, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people. Remember that the Lord will give you an inheritance as your reward, and that the Master you are serving is Christ.” (NLT)
If our faith isn’t relevant in the workplace, it isn’t relevant at all. So let’s look at what Scripture teaches us about work and how we can discover God’s purpose in it.
What the Bible Says About Work
- The Creation of Work
Before sin ever entered the world, God gave Adam a job.
Genesis 2:15 says, “The Lord God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and take care of it.”
Work is not a curse—it’s part of God’s good design for our lives.
- The Curse of Work
After the fall, work became harder. Genesis 3:17–19 tells us that the ground was cursed and work became toil. We still experience frustration, setbacks, and struggles in our jobs today.
- The Commitment of Work
Proverbs 13:4 teaches, “Lazy people want much but get little, but those who work hard will prosper.”
Work requires perseverance, but God blesses diligence.
Five Purposes of Work
So why do we work? Beyond just paying the bills, God has deeper purposes for our daily labor.
- To Earn a Living
Providing for ourselves and our families is a biblical responsibility (1 Timothy 5:8; 2 Thessalonians 3:10–12). Work allows us to meet our needs and care for those God has entrusted to us.
- To Express My Talents
God has given each of us unique gifts and abilities. Work is one of the ways we express those talents. “Use them well to serve one another.” (1 Peter 4:10)
- To Enlarge My Character
Work challenges us. It stretches our patience, builds endurance, and strengthens our faith. As 1 Peter 5:10 reminds us, through challenges God restores, supports, and strengthens us.
- To Encourage Others
Our work isn’t just about us—it’s about how we impact others. Proverbs 11:25 says, “A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.” Through kindness, generosity, and integrity, our work can uplift those around us.
- To Expand God’s Kingdom
Ultimately, work gives us opportunities to advance God’s kingdom. Acts 20:35 reminds us of Jesus’ words: “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” Our work funds generosity, fuels ministry, and points others to Christ.
Work With Purpose
Your job may not always feel “spiritual,” but when you work as unto the Lord, even the most ordinary tasks carry eternal significance. Every email you send, every class you take, every meal you prepare, and every client you serve can be an act of worship.
So tomorrow morning, as you clock in, pick up the tools, or log onto your computer, remember: you’re not just working for a paycheck—you’re working for the Lord. And that gives your work incredible purpose.
***This blog post was adapted from a sermon preached by Pastor Jason Kimbrow at Legacy Church. Click the “Watch Sermon” button below to view the sermon in its entirety.***