No matter what you do, work can be frustrating. At those moments, people wonder, “Why am I doing this?” Many people work just for the money – to pay off debts or to have the things in life they desire? Some work to support a lifestyle of fun or recreation. Others work to make a mark or gain acclaim, while some work to gain power or influence.
The Bible is very relevant to real life. It has a lot to say about work. It helps us understand why we go to work, and how to do our work. The Bible defines several worthwhile purposes for work.
- To provide for your family.
1 Timothy 5:8 (NIV) Anyone who does not provide for their relatives, and especially for their own household, has denied the faith.
- To have something to help others in need.
Ephesians 4:28 (NIV) Anyone who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with their own hands, that they may have something to share with those in need.
As important as these reasons are, the ultimate reason for going to work is not money, power, or prestige, but to maximize the full potential of our labor to bring honor to God.
Discussion Questions:
- Watch the video together or invite someone to summarize the topic.
- What is your initial reaction to this video? Do you disagree with any of it? What jumped out at you?
- Where do you work? What do you like most and least about your job?
- Do a quick calculation: what percentage of your waking life do you spend at work? (Hours at work / waking hours x 100)
- What is your number one motivation for going to work? What other factors come into play?
- What are some ways that a person can bring honor to God at work?
- Write a personal action step based on this conversation.
