Discovering Meaning In Work

Ruth

God saw all that he had made, and it was very good. And there was evening, and there was morning—the sixth day.

—Genesis 1:31

If you have ever struggled to find joy and meaning in your work, you are not alone! Some estimate that over 75 percent of people are unhappy doing what they do. Let’s be honest, sometimes it’s easier to grumble our way through a workday or week. But is this really God’s vision for work? What if God has more for us in the workplace? What about as a student, mom, ministry leader, or volunteer?

The opening chapters of the Bible record God in the act of work. Genesis 1 and 2 describe the act of God creating the world as working. He is busy. Active. Productive. Creative. Shaping. Forming. Producing. And if that is not enough, Genesis 1:31 tells us that God takes great joy in His work. We don’t find Him complaining about all He has to do or grumbling about the inconvenience of disorder and chaos! He actually takes great delight in working. There is something inherently good and important and meaningful about work because God works.

The Bible doesn’t stop there. We’re told that not only does God work, but He has created us to work. In fact, work existed before sin entered the world. Work was a part of God’s original and good creation. Genesis 1:26 tells us that we are made in God’s “image” and “likeness.” Because God works, we work. Work, no matter what we do for a living, can be an act of worship.

Work doesn’t just exist for us. God desires that we become fully engaged and give ourselves to the calling of loving Him and others through our work. It’s not just an opportunity to acquire possessions or self-worth. Ultimately work is an opportunity to serve God and serve others with the gifts, resources, and energy God has given us.

Do you need the reminder that work really is full of meaning and purpose? Every act, every task, no matter how small or seemingly unimportant, matters to God. And your work can be an act of worship to the God who works in you and through you.

Father, You are the King of creation. You are active, fully at work in Your good creation. Teach me to see all I do as an act of worship to You. Remind me of the great value and purpose of my work. Let my work be an avenue to love You and serve others. In Jesus’ name, amen.

How would you describe your attitude or understanding of work?

In what way can your work become an act of worship?