Unleash Your Faith at Work: Living a Fully Integrated LifeSample

Find True Purpose for Work

After God’s work of Creation, Genesis 2:2 tells us: “And on the seventh day God finished his work that he had done, and he rested on the seventh day from all his work that he had done.” After God created Adam, Adam immediately received his first assignment to work the garden (Genesis 2:15). Work was a blessing, but sin impacted work (thorns, thistles, paper jams and so on). Thankfully, Jesus not only redeemed us by his death and resurrection, he also redeemed our work. 

We often define work by the effort we put in and the results we produce such as income and position. But God designed work to be so much more. The word used for work in Genesis 2:15 is avodah, which means work, worship and service. Uniting these three unleashes purpose in and through our work. Our work is meant to be an act of worship and a means of serving God and others with love. This applies to ALL work, whether you are cleaning offices, working with spreadsheets, teaching children, or leading an organization. 

Each of us was created by God for particular work that God prepared for us ahead of time (Ephesians 2:10) and we are each blessed with specific gifts that allow us to contribute to the functioning of the whole (Romans 12:4-8). From God’s perspective, one job is not better or more important than the other. 

Turning your work into an act of worship requires a shift in mindset, and the posture with which you do your work. 

• You were created for a purpose: God has uniquely created and blessed you with specific skills so you can bless others through your work.
• You are working for the Lord: Regardless of who your boss is, remember that God is the One we ultimately need to please.
• Put the needs of others above your own: Humility is not thinking less of ourselves, but thinking of ourselves less with an eye toward how we can serve others.

What can you do to turn your work into an act of worship?

Prayer

Father, thank you for the work You have given me and the privilege to do my work in partnership with You for Your glory. Help me to use my skills as an act of worship to You and in service to You and others. In Jesus’ name. Amen.