OUR WORK IS SIGNIFICANT TO GOD
God is a Worker.
From the beginning of Genesis 1 and 2, we see God as a strategic planner, designer, real estate developer, project manager and many other tasks. Following are a few the works that the Trinity is involved in. God the Father is Creator, Preserver, Provider, Revealer, and Lawgiver. Jesus Christ is Creator, Savior, Sustainer, Advocate, Intercessor, and Head of the Church. The Holy Spirit is Regenerator, Illuminator, Sanctifier, Guide, Teacher, Fruit Producer, Filler, Baptizer, and Distributer of Gifts, etc.
We are Junior Partners with God
Work was part of God’s created order for humanity prior to sin. 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.” After the fall, man not only had to work, but it came with effort (Genesis 3:17-19). As image bearers of God, we partner with Him in the work of creation, preservation, ruling, and even redemption. “For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them” (Ephesians. 2:10, NASB). Each job or career field is God’s calling on your life, which He also desires to be our ministry.
Rationale for Working
To provide for those who are our responsibility
“If anyone does not provide for his relatives, and especially for his immediate family, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever” (1 Tim. 5:8).
To stay out of sin (By removing the temptation to steal)
“He who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with his own hands, that he may have something to share with those in need” (Ephesians 4:28).
To be able to help others
“Tell them to use their money to do good. They should be rich in good works and generous to those in need, always being ready to share with others” (1 Timothy 6:18, NLT).
To learn how to serve others in our places of ministry
“Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven” (Matthew 5:16, NASB).
To grow spiritually through the pressures, people, and problems associated with our jobs. “
You who are slaves must accept the authority of your masters. Do whatever they tell you--not only if they are kind and reasonable, but even if they are harsh. For God is pleased with you when, for the sake of your conscience, you patiently endure unfair treatment (1 Peter 2:18-19, NLT).
Guidelines for How We Work
Obey with sincerity of heart. (Colossians 3:22-24; Ephesians 6:5-8)
Give respect to your employer. (1 Timothy 6:1-2)
Be honest in all your dealings. (Titus 2:9-10, NLT)
“Slaves must always obey their masters and do their best to please them. They must not talk back or steal, but must show themselves to be entirely trustworthy and good. Then they will make the teaching about God our Savior attractive in every way” (Titus 2:9-10, NLT).
LESSONS FOR LIFE:
When work is done in and for the Lord, it benefits others and honors God.
True importance is not found in position or prestige, but in the way our work is done and the Audience for whom we do it.
When we seek to glorify God in whatever we do (1 Cor. 10:31), we will pursue excellence in our work, whether others notice or not.
When you work heartily as for the Lord, you will receive the reward of the inheritance from the Lord (Colossians 3:23-24).
God is glorified when we rest from work (Deuteronomy 5:13-15; Psalm 46:10).
PRACTICAL SUGGESTIONS FOR BLESSING OTHERS IN THE WORKPLACE:
On the way to work or when you arrive at work, pray for your co-workers, bosses, and the day ahead.
Instead of eating lunch alone, intentionally eat with other co-workers and learn their story.
Make it a priority to speak or write encouragement when someone does good work.
Bring extra snacks when you make your lunch to give away to others.
Make a list of your co-workers’ birthdays and find a way to bless everyone on their birthday.
Bring breakfast (donuts, breakfast tacos, etc.) once a month or when you are able for everyone in your department.
Find time to invite your co-workers over or out for coffee, dessert, or a meal.
