Biblical Principals of Work and the Biblical Work Ethic
Creational Ordinances of God
God has given in the dawn of time three ordinances upon which all of society must build and rest. These ordinances are for mankind and they bring peace and joy into ones life as they are looked upon and are implemented God’s way.
When we see society in history in its greatest struggles, when we read and study nations that have risen to power and fallen we can readily see that the creation ordinances of God were not honored and practiced. In every instance I think you will find these out of balance leading to and causing the demises of many nations throughout history.
In our own struggles of life which we have encountered, if honest with ourselves, we will see that one or more of these basic ordinances were neglected, or the practice of them was in error in our thinking which brought many struggles, depressions and problems in our personal lives. Therefore it is important to learn of these ordinances so we may live in the Kingdom of God in joy peace and righteousness in the Holy Spirit. That is the purpose of this class.
The three creational ordinances which God established at the dawn of history and time are Sabbath and Worship, Marriage and Family, Work and Labor.
1.) Sabbath and Worship - God made the Sabbath for man and not man for the Sabbath. We are to remember his day to set aside a seventh of our time for learning His word so that we may go forward learning what we creatures are to do and give God the praise for all he has taught us and will teach us in His Holy Word concerning: Worship, Marriage and Family
2.) Marriage and the Family - It is only as we honor God on the Sabbath that we learn of God and His design of Marriage and Family ( mutual help, increase of mankind, prevention of uncleanness). Since His word is to be expounded and nothing less than the "whole counsel of God" is to be taught to us then we can learn of marriage as well as other things in the Bible and enhance our worship and adoration of God every Sabbath. Not only on the Sabbath but daily in our lives as we live according to His loving commands.
3.) Work or Labor - Again biblically it is only as we are given the Bible in all its teaching in worship on the sabbath and as we understand marriage that we come to know God’s ordinance and the why’s and wherefores of work and labor.
If any of these ordinances become out of focus and unbalanced in ones life then it will cause problems in that life. An example in this is if you are failing in marriage duties then you will be improperly worshipping and will have be off balance in your labor and work
Selected Scripture From Which the Biblical Work Ethic Is Derived:
Genesis 1:26-28 And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness: and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth. So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them. And God blessed them, and God said unto them, Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth, and subdue it: and have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over every living thing that moveth upon the earth.
Psalms 8:3-9 When I consider thy heavens, the work of thy fingers, the moon and the stars, which thou hast ordained; What is man, that thou art mindful of him? and the son of man, that thou visitest him? For thou hast made him a little lower than the angels, and hast crowned him with glory and honour. Thou madest him to have dominion over the works of thy hands; thou hast put all things under his feet: All sheep and oxen, yea, and the beasts of the field; The fowl of the air, and the fish of the sea, and whatsoever Passeth through the paths of the seas.
Psalms 8:9 O LORD our Lord, how excellent is thy name in all the earth!
Exodus 23:12 Six days thou shalt do thy work, and on the seventh day thou shalt rest: that thine ox and thine ass may rest, and the son of thy handmaid, and the stranger, may be refreshed.
Proverbs 10:4-5 He becometh poor that dealeth with a slack hand: but the hand of the diligent maketh rich. He that gathereth in summer is a wise son: but he that sleepeth in harvest is a son that causeth shame.
Proverbs 12:11 He that tilleth his land shall be satisfied with bread: but he that followeth vain persons is void of understanding.
Proverbs 13:4 The soul of the sluggard desireth, and hath nothing: but the soul of the diligent shall be made fat.
Ephesians 6:5-8 Servants, be obedient to them that are your masters according to the flesh, with fear and trembling, in singleness of your heart, as unto Christ; Not with eyeservice, as menpleasers; but as the servants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart; With good will doing service, as to the Lord, and not to men: Knowing that whatsoever good thing any man doeth, the same shall he receive of the Lord, whether he be bond or free.
Colossians 3:22-25 Servants, obey in all things your masters according to the flesh; not with eyeservice, as menpleasers; but in singleness of heart, fearing God; And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men; Knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ. But he that doeth wrong shall receive for the wrong which he hath done: and there is no respect of persons.
1 Thessalonians 4:9-12 But as touching brotherly love ye need not that I write unto you: for ye yourselves are taught of God to love one another. And indeed ye do it toward all the brethren which are in all Macedonia: but we beseech you, brethren, that ye increase more and more; And that ye study to be quiet, and to do your own business, and to work with your own hands, as we commanded you; That ye may walk honestly toward them that are without, and that ye may have lack of nothing.
2 Thessalonians 3:10-15 For even when we were with you, this we commanded you, that if any would not work, neither should he eat. For we hear that there are some which walk among you disorderly, working not at all, but are busybodies. Now them that are such we command and exhort by our Lord Jesus Christ, that with quietness they work, and eat their own bread. But ye, brethren, be not weary in well doing. And if any man obey not our word by this epistle, note that man, and have no company with him, that he may be ashamed. Yet count him not as an enemy, but admonish him as a brother.
1 Timothy 5:8 But if any provide not for his own, and specially for those of his own house, he hath denied the faith, and is worse than an infidel.
The scriptures teach that work is not a result of the fall but is the ordinary call of every human and is established by God at creation. We need to look at work, what it is and what ethics are built around the idea of work and labor. Notice that ... "God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness: and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth. So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them. And God blessed them, and God said unto them, Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth, and subdue it: and have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over every living thing that moveth upon the earth. This teaches us several things: 1.) Fruitfulness is commanded; 2.) Work of replenishment of the earth is demanded; 3.) Subduing the earthand taking dominion is a goal for humanity,
The first man prefall Adam was to work dressing the garden, naming the animals and ruling over them. He was is to also propagate the earth with the human race by multiplying, teaching and training his offsrpring to continue work to subdue and take dominion in the earth. Work and labour, not being a a result of the fall, therefore was not a burden but a delight and blessing. It is a good thing being God ordained.
The hardship of labor comes to us as a result of the fall. Thorns and thistles, and the sweats of the brow are post fall hardships as part of the Adamic covenant. However, even in the toils of life God provides for us. This is His established covenant with man. Lamech acknowledged the toil and labor after the fall in his words concerning the birth of , "...he called his name Noah, saying, This same shall comfort us concerning our work and toil of our hands, because of the ground which the LORD hath cursed". Noah was born and no doubt trained knowing the curse which God pronounced after the fall in Eden Gen 3:17-19 ..."cursed is the ground for thy sake; in sorrow shalt thou eat of it all the days of thy life; Thorns also and thistles shall it bring forth to thee; and thou shalt eat the herb of the field; In the sweat of thy face shalt thou eat bread.."
Work and Labor in Both Old and New Testament
There are example of work and labor all in the scriptures both in the Old and New Testaments.Clear examples of the institution of labor being carried forth early in Genesis as we see Adam’s sons carrying forth the demands of the institution. Cain being a tiller of the ground and Abel being a shepherd. Cain's family developed art Genesis 4:16/ 20-22 And Cain went out from the presence of the LORD, and dwelt in the land of Nod, on the east of Eden. And Cain knew his wife; and she conceived, and bare Enoch: and he builded a city, and called the name of the city, after the name of his son, Enoch. ........And Adah bare Jabal: he was the father of such as dwell in tents, and of such as have cattle. And his brother's name was Jubal: he was the father of all such as handle the harp and organ. And Zillah, she also bare Tubalcain, an instructer of every artificer in brass and iron: and the sister of Tubalcain was Naamah.
Noah after leaving the ark, began doing gardening, for he planted a vineyard. He was working according to the restated and now enhanced covenant given to him by God. Genesis 9:20 And Noah began to be an husbandman, and he planted a vineyard. Also note that the curse of Ham and the blessing upon Shem and Jepheth both are related to the ordinance of labor (Gen. 9:22-27).
One finds Abraham, Issac, and Jacob as men who carried forth the institution of work and recieved fruit from their labors. The fourth commandment of the Decalogue is seen in light of the institution of work. We are to worship God one day every seven. While in the other six days there is to be work.
Exodus 20:8-11 Remember the sabbath day, to keep it holy. Six days shalt thou labour, and do all thy work: But the seventh day is the sabbath of the LORD thy God: in it thou shalt not do any work, thou, nor thy son, nor thy daughter, thy manservant, nor thy maidservant, nor thy cattle, nor thy stranger that is within thy gates: For in six days the LORD made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that in them is, and rested the seventh day: wherefore the LORD blessed the sabbath day, and hallowed it.
As you move into the New Testament we come to understand even more the heart of the obligation for men to work. The New Testament judges idleness / laziness as impiety and sin. 2 Thessalonians 3:6 Now we command you, brethren, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye withdraw yourselves from every brother that walketh disorderly, and not after the tradition which he received of us. The bible declares that breaking the ordinance of labor or being lazy brings forth all kind of sin.
2 Thessalonians 3:6-11 Now we command you, brethren, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye withdraw yourselves from every brother that walketh disorderly, and not after the tradition which he received of us.For yourselves know how ye ought to follow us: for we behaved not ourselves disorderly among you; Neither did we eat any man's bread for nought; but wrought with labour and travail night and day, that we might not be chargeable to any of you: Not because we have not power, but to make ourselves an ensample unto you to follow us. For even when we were with you, this we commanded you, that if any would not work, neither should he eat. For we hear that there are some which walk among you disorderly, working not at all, but are busybodies.
1 Corinthians 5:11 But now I have written unto you not to keep company, if any man that is called a brother be a fornicator, or covetous, or an idolater, or a railer, or a drunkard, or an extortioner; with such an one no not to eat.
Not only is the breaking of this ordinance sin but it is even a litmus test regarding ones very salvation. For someone not to work and provide for his family by his actions shows a denial of the faith.
1 Timothy 5:8, 13-16 But if any provide not for his own, and specially for those of his own house, he hath denied the faith, and is worse than an infidel...And withal they learn to be idle, wandering about from house to house; and not only idle, but tattlers also and busybodies, speaking things which they ought not. I will therefore that the younger women marry, bear children, guide the house, give none occasion to the adversary to speak reproachfully. For some are already turned aside after Satan. If any man or woman that believeth have widows, let them relieve them, and let not the church be charged; that it may relieve them that are widows indeed.Jesus Christ that with quietness they work, and eat their own bread.
Working is in a large part being godly. Paul’s shows the way of godliness concerning the work ethic toward the family is to labor to takie care of parents, widows and children, " for that is good and acceptable before God (1 Tim.5:4). The ungodly Pharisees and scribes taught a denial of the faith as well as a breaking of the 5th commandment: Mark 7:9-13 "And he said unto them, Full well ye reject the commandment of God, that ye may keep your own tradition. For Moses said, Honour thy father and thy mother; and, Whoso curseth father or mother, let him die the death: But ye say, If a man shall say to his father or mother, It is Corban, that is to say, a gift, by whatsoever thou mightest be profited by me; he shall be free.And ye suffer him no more to do ought for his father or his mother; Making the word of God of none effect through your tradition, which ye have delivered: and many such like things do ye.
Work is a religious command of God. We are to work to take care of His world, the down and out such as the widows and orphans and our families. He created us to work here and now in this world and in looking ot the future eternal state we will also serve and worship Him. Work was to be a delight. Sin happenned. We can still have delight in our work, and that delight abundantly, as we work doing all to the glory of God in the life Christ came to give us having Christ as our focus. What we do in our work and labors we do is for His glory and the advancement of His kingdom. We are subduing the earth for the Saviour. We are fulfilling the cultural mandate given in Genesis providing for our families and for the needs of others For the glory and honor of God..
God has ordained that there is to be a variety in types of labor.
God created men as a two part being. There is an immaterial part of man and a physical aspect of man. Man has a physical body and a mind. Men created a thinking being are to think, and plan and establish projects. The Lord Jesus used the example of using the mind in the teaching that He provided in the need of counting the cost (planning / thinking ) before building a tower "For which of you, intending to build a tower, sitteth not down first, and counteth the cost, whether he have sufficient to finish it? (Lk.14:28)" Once planned men are then to meet those goals through labor. To move things, to clean, to build, etc. is to stretch the muscles using the body. Man was created with muscles and the ability to engage the body in planned labour.
There is an inter-relational order between the different types of labor- mental and physical.. Some men and women work and labor intently with their minds in their vocation. In this type of labor there are the lawyers, teachers, engineers, pastors, corporate leaders, etc. Other men and women labor intently with their hands, backs and minds in doing the practical work of building things as well as carrying forth services that are needed by our society. They are the builders, nurses, mechanics, cooks, policemen, etc. All types of people are needed in our society to build and serve the societial infrastructure. While some work with their hands and back with chemicals, wood, paper, computers, etc. they are also called to work with people that work more with their minds teaching, managing, writing, planning, etc.and vise versa. One type of labor is not better than the other. We all are obligated and responsible, being given the ability and responsibility to work together with people with all types and variety of competiencies. Both are equally important in this world for society and for the good of mankind to build the proper social infrastructure. Each persons competiencies and gifts are given by God for the common good of all mankind, the advancement of the kingdom of God and for the glory of God.
The Gifts and Call of God in Your Work
God has given men certain competiencies to fit the calling or callings God has for each person. Men are to work using those gifts and ablities which God has gifted him or her. We live in a society wherein we think we all have the rights and ability to go to college, take whaever course of study we desire, struggle through, graduate and then work at that job for which we desire even though we barely passed the final exam. It is true that we are all created equal but we do not have the same abilities. Maybe, just maybe, we are over extended from our God given abilities. You need to understand that not all people have the same abilities. Some people do not see well. Therefore for them to take a job as a reader, test grader, newspaper journalist / editor would be out of their God given providential abilities. The gifts of God in Romans 12, 1 Peter, and 1 Corinthians are gifts based upon the abilities God is pleased to give the believers. So it is with mankind in creation in general. All non-inhibited, non-handicapped people may be creative in their abilities God has given them, but not all of them can be carpenters, lawyers, doctors, business men. Not all can be office managers, drafters, contract negotiators, etc. Your abilities are a gift from God. You need to decern your abilities and seek those avenues of study and labor. For you to try to be an auto mechanic, even if you have a desire, without the ability to perform this task is to bring upon you undue burden, hard labor, dissatification in the work force and personal relationship problems. You may even find yourself eventually in the unemployment line. Without further comment and any other example I think most of us can identify with this in that many of us may have possibly have been there.
We need to understand that our abilities are from God. Not only are our gifts and abilities from him but also the labor that we are to perform is a calling of God in our lives. We know that God is soverign and that in His providence we are in a vocation from God. Therefore we are to work in that position which fits our competiencies and abilities to the glory of Christ our Savior knowing that this is God’s will for us at this time. Our life will be best regulated when the focus is to know, acknowledge and use those God given abilities. In putting our abilities to use we will not be unsettled about where to look for a place to fit in the work environment. We will not be running to and fro at every "I think I’d like to do this" fanciful whim. We will not be trying to do that which is really beyond our abilities. We will quickly become more stable in our work environment, with a more stabile work enviornment and we will be more stable in providing for the family. Also in this we will be able to do a better quality work for the glory of God, the advancement of the kingdom and the common good for our society. .
How does one evaluate to discover, develop, and use the gifts God has given to you as an individual? Romans 12:3-6 affords a basic biblical framework. First, you need to evaluate soberly (clearly and factually) yourself in order to discover God’s gifts. An example: Do not think you are a scientist when you do not know nor have never worked in science field but only like science magazines. Secondly, you must recognize the function of the individual gifts among the many that there are. You must know that your abilities are different from others yet they are part of a whole. Not all have the same gifts or abilities. Thirdly, use the individual gift in practical applications which is goive you by the grace of God, by God’s help. In othere words, "How does that which I am able to do affect others in church and society?
Romans 12:3-6 For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith. Romans 12:4-5 For as we have many members in one body, and all members have not the same office:So we, being many, are one body in Christ, and every one members one of another. Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, whether prophecy, let us prophesy according to the proportion of faith; Or ministry, let us wait on our ministering: or he that teacheth, on teaching;
Work was established in the garden prior tothe fall. In this "friendly environment" work was about being obedient to God who ordained it. Created men were to accomplish work because of the ordanince / decree of God. Therefore we can deduce from the time historical account of the established ordinance that money is not the satisification we get from work. The money we get from work is a benefit and not its ultimate purpose. The ultimate purpose in work is to please God by being obedient to Him working aqs unto Him. Work done in a God-honoring manner will bring joy and satisfaction as we live redeemed in Christ in the abundant life He gives.
The necessity in man is to be a creative and productive being. Man has been made to have dominion over the works of his hands. God has put all things under his feet. (Ps. 8:6 and Genesis chapters 1-2) This overall calling and necessity is seen in the carrying forth of such desires in the tasks and duties of: a. the science of discovery; b. building of things; c. Home furnishing and decorating; d. gardening; e. self-employment of many sorts; f. baking; g. hobbies; etc.
Work and Rest Balance
Thus far here are some of the following things the Bible establishes regarding work. First, work is established as a creational ordinance. Secondly, work is diverse in that there are various types of work namely in two overarching categories: mental and physical. Thirdly, work to be done properly is driven by applying certain skills. the Bible teaches that a persons competiencies, abilities and gifts are given by God and are to be used within their necesary calling. Fourthly, in order to work properly and confidently one must identify their gifts they will know what type of work to do in order to use their competencies in the work environment. Fifthly, work is foremost established not for the benefit of earning money but for the pleasing of God by being obedient to Him.
With all this talk of work, work, work, is there a balance regarding work and labor? The answer is, "Yes!" We are commanded in the scriptures to work six days and to worship and rest on the sabbath. The sabbath is the one in seven principal of work as worship / rest. In the Old Testament the sabbath was the day we know as Saturday. In the New Testament the sabbath is Sunday, the first day of the week or the Lord’s Day. Sunday is the one in seven day of rest for the believer after the resurrection of our Lord. For the believer for it is the day of the celebration of the resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ. It is in the context of the sabbath / Christian sabbath that God commands men to work six days a week. There is nowhere a mention in the Bible that we have the opportunity not to work if we are able. With the proper work / rest, worship commandment being obeyed there is great blessing to mankind and especially beleivers. Notice the command of God regarding work and rest / worship:
Exodus 20:8-11 Remember the sabbath day, to keep it holy. Six days shalt thou labour, and do all thy work: But the seventh day is the sabbath of the LORD thy God: in it thou shalt not do any work, thou, nor thy son, nor thy daughter, thy manservant, nor thy maidservant, nor thy cattle, nor thy stranger that is within thy gates: For in six days the LORD made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that in them is, and rested the seventh day: wherefore the LORD blessed the sabbath day, and hallowed it.
Deuteronomy 5:12-15 Keep the sabbath day to sanctify it, as the LORD thy God hath commanded thee. Six days thou shalt labour, and do all thy work: But the seventh day is the sabbath of the LORD thy God: in it thou shalt not do any work, thou, nor thy son, nor thy daughter, nor thy manservant, nor thy maidservant, nor thine ox, nor thine ass, nor any of thy cattle, nor thy stranger that is within thy gates; that thy manservant and thy maidservant may rest as well as thou. And remember that thou wast a servant in the land of Egypt, and that the LORD thy God brought thee out thence through a mighty hand and by a stretched out arm: therefore the LORD thy God commanded thee to keep the sabbath day.
Isaiah 58:13-14 If thou turn away thy foot from the sabbath, from doing thy pleasure on my holy day; and call the sabbath a delight, the holy of the LORD, honourable; and shalt honour him, not doing thine own ways, nor finding thine own pleasure, nor speaking thine own words: Then shalt thou delight thyself in the LORD; and I will cause thee to ride upon the high places of the earth, and feed thee with the heritage of Jacob thy father: for the mouth of the LORD hath spoken it.
The creational work ordinance pattern of work is seen all through the Bible. We note it in the early chapters of Genesis especially at the account of Creation, restated at the covenant of preseveration with Noah, and again the same labor ordinance given to Moses in the fourth commandent in the Decalogue. The work / worship principal is this: Work six days - labor and toil, doing all for the glory of God then worship and rest one day which is called the Lord’s Day. On the day od rest and worship you re called to give prayer and praise to the Creator of all things, hear and read God’s Word, and do good to any of your fellow men in works of love, mercy and necessity as is needed.
Often we miss one things and that is that labor is an integral part of the fourth commandment. But if one leaves that out then the day of rest has no meaning. Rest is meaningless apart from the clause "Six days shalt thou labour, and do all thy work". Rest is do be accommplished as opposed to the six days of labor ordained by the Lord.
The Lord not only commands us to labor but He gives us also the knowledge to know that we are to be consistent in working. There is to be labor for a consistant six days, then there is a day every seven days of rest and worship. This cycle established by God for man is one very important cycle for all men in all societies. Our God is so kind and gracious that "for man he made the sabbath".We do not need to guess if there is work we are to do or if we can get a break from our labor. We have the word of God and are sure of constancy in a weekly work and patterned sabbath rest.
Many of the economic bills, woes, relationships, and work pressures as a family and as a nation could be solved if we would but live according to this God ordained work and rest cycle. Let’s look at it this way "we" work 5 days a week, and without rest we "spend seven". "We" are always working for the past and not the "now and future" since we ow credit card and other bills. This brings undue pressure on the husband, wife, children. . It is in this pattern that one cannot find work pleasant. , and bill collectors. Not only has the breaking of the creational ordinace of work caused problems economically but has also caused a moral decline in our nation and world. Our twenty-first century society does not take the time to remember the Lord, His word and His ways. We have as a society "worked" our way into a spiritual and ungodly mess. Perhaps it is time for you to rediscover the Lord’s day, call it a delight and be blessed in all your life. If you do call the sabbath a delight there are great blessings. Isaiah 58:13-14 If thou turn away thy foot from the sabbath, from doing thy pleasure on my holy day; and call the sabbath a delight, the holy of the LORD, honourable; and shalt honour him, not doing thine own ways, nor finding thine own pleasure, nor speaking thine own words: Then shalt thou delight thyself in the LORD; and I will cause thee to ride upon the high places of the earth, and feed thee with the heritage of Jacob thy father: for the mouth of the LORD hath spoken it.
Below are sever passages of Scripture that direct us in the creational ordinance of work and the blessings of keeping the sabbath the Lord made for each of us.
Genesis 1:26-31 And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness: and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth. So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them. and God blessed them, and God said unto them, Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth, and subdue it: and have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over every living thing that moveth upon the earth. And God said, Behold, I have given you every herb bearing seed, which is upon the face of all the earth, and every tree, in the which is the fruit of a tree yielding seed; to you it shall be for meat. And to every beast of the earth, and to every fowl of the air, and to every thing that creepeth upon the earth, wherein there is life, I have given every green herb for meat: and it was so. And God saw every thing that he had made, and, behold, it was very good. And the evening and the morning were the sixth day.
Genesis 2:2-3 And on the seventh day God ended his work which he had made; and he rested on the seventh day from all his work which he had made. And God blessed the seventh day, and sanctified it: because that in it he had rested from all his work which God created and made.
Genesis 9:1 And God blessed Noah and his sons, and said unto them, Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth.
Exodus 20:8-11 Remember the sabbath day, to keep it holy. Six days shalt thou labour, and do all thy work: But the seventh day is the sabbath of the LORD thy God: in it thou shalt not do any work, thou, nor thy son, nor thy daughter, thy manservant, nor thy maidservant, nor thy cattle, nor thy stranger that is within thy gates: For in six days the LORD made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that in them is, and rested the seventh day: wherefore the LORD blessed the sabbath day, and hallowed it.
Deuteronomy 5:12-15 Keep the sabbath day to sanctify it, as the LORD thy God hath commanded thee. Six days thou shalt labour, and do all thy work: But the seventh day is the sabbath of the LORD thy God: in it thou shalt not do any work, thou, nor thy son, nor thy daughter, nor thy manservant, nor thy maidservant, nor thine ox, nor thine ass, nor any of thy cattle, nor thy stranger that is within thy gates; that thy manservant and thy maidservant may rest as well as thou. And remember that thou wast a servant in the land of Egypt, and that the LORD thy God brought thee out thence through a mighty hand and by a stretched out arm: therefore the LORD thy God commanded thee to keep the sabbath day.
Mark 2:23-28 And it came to pass, that he went through the corn fields on the sabbath day; and his disciples began, as they went, to pluck the ears of corn. And the Pharisees said unto him, Behold, why do they on the sabbath day that which is not lawful? And he said unto them, Have ye never read what David did, when he had need, and was an hungred, he, and they that were with him? How he went into the house of God in the days of Abiathar the high priest, and did eat the shewbread, which is not lawful to eat but for the priests, and gave also to them which were with him? And he said unto them, The sabbath was made for man, and not man for the sabbath: Therefore the Son of man is Lord also of the sabbath.
Work is not for only the male or those that are hired to be servants of others. But all men , women and children are to please God and work as he has ordained. Men are to work in order to obey God and to provide for his home and family. Women are to be working in the family structure for the good of the family and the support of the .home to the glory of God (Prov 31). Children are to work. they learn to work through their play time and through the chores the parents set up for them and hold them accountable to perform. For children proper playing, doing chores and school work are to be done for their development in the kingdom of Christ.
Non-work Produces Sinful Results and Effects
Before addresssing some of the sins that come from the affect of being lazy here are a few passages which indicate some of the mindset of those tht break the creational ordinance:
Proverbs 6:6-11 Go to the ant, thou sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise: Which having no guide, overseer, or ruler, Provideth her meat in the summer, and gathereth her food in the harvest. How long wilt thou sleep, O sluggard? when wilt thou arise out of thy sleep? Yet a little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to sleep: So shall thy poverty come as one that travelleth, and thy want as an armed man.
Proverbs 10:26 As vinegar to the teeth, and as smoke to the eyes, so is the sluggard to them that send him.
Proverbs 13:4 The soul of the sluggard desireth, and hath nothing: but the soul of the diligent shall be made fat.
Proverbs 20:4 The sluggard will not plow by reason of the cold; therefore shall he beg in harvest, and have nothing.
Proverbs 26:16 The sluggard is wiser in his own conceit than seven men that can render a reason
Non-work, called laziness, produces sinful results and effects. The sin of discontentment and dissatisfaction result from two primary sources- physical and mental. The lazy person becomes sluggish in their mind and body when one does not work. The scriptures in the Biblical wisdom literature of Proverbs and in the practical New Testament letters denounce laziness. Solomon, a wise man, said that sleep to a workingan is sweet (Eccles. 5:12). For one not to work means that one cannot sleep and have the rest there God had intended for him or her. The lazy person does not do work, whether mental or physical, and therefore does not release muscular energy. Therefore, at night the muscles do not relax, rest is not sweet and the lazy person will find themselves tired the next morning and dissastified.
In contrast working expends muscular energy. Since energy is expended during the day the laborer enters in to the night with a sence of accomplishment. In rest the muscles relax, rest becomes sweet and satisfying. This is the difference between a worker being tired but satisfied, and a lazy person being tired but dissastified. Even those who may be shut in and disabled so that they cannot do physical labor can find work satisfying. There can be letter writing, praying, teaching, discipleship training etc. Energy expended, and good sweet sleep are ordered by the Lord.
Laziness brings not only bad physical side effects but also affects man mentally. You will always find a negative view of life around the lazy person. The disobedience of the command to work, the laying aside of this obligation will trigger bad effects and feelings both physically and mentally. If you find that you tend to be lazy please take notethat any effects that are experienced should be a warning for you to be awakened to obey the Lord’s commands concerning work and labor.
2 Thessalonians 3:8-12 Neither did we eat any man's bread for nought; but wrought with labour and travail night and day, that we might not be chargeable to any of you: Not because we have not power, but to make ourselves an ensample unto you to follow us. For even when we were with you, this we commanded you, that if any would not work, neither should he eat. For we hear that there are some which walk among you disorderly, working not at all, but are busybodies. Now them that are such we command and exhort by our Lord Jesus Christ, that with quietness they work, and eat their own bread.
The lazy are volcanoes waiting to explode. When men do not work they become lazy, sluggish and disorderly in their lives. When men do not work they sin and become dissastified with themselves having a negative self-evaluation, with others around and about them becoming "fault-finding", From a lazy person love is not shown to others and love does not cover the sin of anyone. Laziness does not pursue peace. The lazy person is also unhappy with life being very discontented (Phil. 4). Interestingly they become Busybodies pushing themselves onto other people and in other peoples matters for other than the sake of helping the brother or sister in Christ grow in their faith and life.They become disorderly in their own lives and seek to take time from others they "visit" thereby making it difficult for them to keep up their responsibilities. Also there is the gossip that generally is spread due to the "fault-finding gossip". Tensions run high because the people seeking to live godly then must confront the lazy gossiping person. At this point the busybody is finding fault with this one and goes to see someone else if church discipline is not administered. With the sin of breaking the creational oprdinance of work there is multiple sins which the Apostle Paul must be handled in the body as a discipline matter among Christians. Christians that are lazy have a testimony that is tarnished before the non-believing. Lazy busybodies do not study to be quiet, work with their hands, nor mind their own business as they are commanded to do.
Paul says that those that won’t, not can’t work, shouldn’t eat. They are breaking the creational ordinance and command of God and are bringing upon themselves self-inflicted destruction. This can be seen in the disorder of their living schedueles. It is evident that in the life of the lazy person their is need for order and scheduling, a pattern to establish the work / worship discipline. Practically if someone should come into contact with Christians with this sin problem be solution-oriented and seek to help the one overtaken in a fault and help them establish schedules and a patterns to labor and rest biblically.
Laziness and sluggishness leads to other sins such as gossiping and busybody work. Why the gossip and busybody work? This is because they have nothing productive with which they are filling their time with. The lazy become angry and discontented at others. This is because they have been thinking and or talking about others, finding their "little faults, failures and sins’. Here again we understand that sins conquences are more far reaching than just the "room of our own lives".It becomes easy for them to run here and there and "stick their nose in where it does not belong" . With this comes disatisfaction, anger, worry and depression about ones self and the situation they are finding themselves in (due to their own sin).
Christians are called to "bear his own burden". Man must work for God has commanded it. When we do sin and become lazy, the conscience is aroused and the bad or miserable physical feelings arise and awaken us to change. We must, for both the health of both the body and mind, obey the creational ordinance for six days work and one day worship and rest. The effects of obedience are contentment, health, strength and peace in life for the glory of God.
I find it interesting that within the Bible there is no concept of retirement. Work for all me for all time and for all of life is the Biblical call in the creational ordinance. Retirement is not an option for the believer since it is not a Christian concept. If one wants to hold to a retirement concept it must de redefined since it cannot be interrepted as a cessation from work. therefore you may define that retirement time in your life as a change from one field of work focus to another. (Example: Carpenter to security officer, banker to farmer, garbage collector to missionary, etc.) The work / worship pattern is established until the Lord returns.
If there is a time when you no longer work as a carpenter, mason, office worker, C.E.O., etc then you can employee yourself in the work of the church. Even widows over sixty employed in the church (1 Tim. 5). There are always labors to be done: prayer, letter writing, visiting, mission work, newsletter / pamplet production, etc.
When we come in to the New Testament and read the passages concerning work in Colossians and in Ephesians it is easy to formulate what has been known as the Biblical work ethic. To work for any other reason than the work ethic of the Bible is to make work a horrible onerious chore wherein there will be no real enjoyment in the work performed. Any working for a monetary accomplishment only makes work a misery rather than an enjoyment. The work at home, school and office or on a job site will only be enjoyable and pleasant according to how work is viewed and how well one follows and understands the biblical work ethic.
The passages referenced above along with the following passages define the Biblical work Ethic in the 15 points below.
Colossians 3:22-4:1 Servants, obey in all things your masters according to the flesh; not with eyeservice, as menpleasers; but in singleness of heart, fearing God; And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men; Knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ. But he that doeth wrong shall receive for the wrong which he hath done: and there is no respect of persons. Masters, give unto your servants that which is just and equal; knowing that ye also have a Master in heaven.
Ephesians 6:5-9 Servants, be obedient to them that are your masters according to the flesh, with fear and trembling, in singleness of your heart, as unto Christ; Not with eyeservice, as menpleasers; but as the servants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart; With good will doing service, as to the Lord, and not to men: Knowing that whatsoever good thing any man doeth, the same shall he receive of the Lord, whether he be bond or free. And, ye masters, do the same things unto them, forbearing threatening: knowing that your Master also is in heaven; neither is there respect of persons with him.
The Points Of The Basic Christian Work Ethic:
1. Christians acknowledge work is a Creational Ordinance
2. Christians perform work six days and rest the seventh
3. Christians work for Christ, as his slaves
4. Christians work at any task in this manner so long as it is not against God’s commands
5. Christians are to work in this manner no matter who their earthly employers may be
6. Christian work ethic focus is on Christ whether their masters are harsh or kind
7. Christians are to work diligently whether the hard work is recognized or not by the masters
8. Christians are to work heartily (well)
9. Christians work with the knowledge that Christ sees all and will
reward the efforts
10. Christ never treats His people unfairly
11. Christians are not to waste time by pilfering,they are not to cut corners nor complain
12. Christians are to work not to please men but to please Christ.
13. Christians that employee others are to treat employees fairly, walking in their shoes
14. Christian employers are to recognize that they too have someone over them
15. Christian employers are to recognize that they will have to give an answer for how they serve Christ and do his commandments
16. Christian employers are to remember that the laborer is worthy of his hire (Lk. 10:7; 1 Cor. 9:14)
Working In and Under Harsh Conditions
As has been seen above Christians are called upon to work as unto the Lord even in a slave / master relationship. They are called upon to labor heartily as unto the Lord being obedient to their master / employer. This is a command for us whether our employee is gentle or harsh. Obedience, for the believer, is more than mere subjection. It is a work of grace in the heart caring forth the Biblical work ethic in love to the Lord. The obedience we are called to is "as unto Christ" says the Apostle Paul Ephesians 6:5-7 "Servants, be obedient to them that are your masters according to the flesh, with fear and trembling, in singleness of your heart, as unto Christ; Not with eyeservice, as menpleasers; but as the servants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart; With good will doing service, as to the Lord, and not to men: .... And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men"
What are Christians to do if they find themselves needing to work under harsh conditions? We are not left unto ourselves but have the Bible to give sufficient answers in this matter. If we find ourselves oppressed by harsh and unfair labor practices we are to be patient and endure waiting on the coming of our Lord the judge of all the earth. Let us know that we are never alone. He does see and know our circustances says James when he says, "Go to now, ye rich men, weep and howl for your miseries that shall come upon you. Your riches are corrupted, and your garments are motheaten. Your gold and silver is cankered; and the rust of them shall be a witness against you, and shall eat your flesh as it were fire. Ye have heaped treasure together for the last days. Behold, the hire of the labourers who have reaped down your fields, which is of you kept back by fraud, crieth: and the cries of them which have reaped are entered into the ears of the Lord of sabaoth. Ye have lived in pleasure on the earth, and been wanton; ye have nourished your hearts, as in a day of slaughter. Ye have condemned and killed the just; and he doth not resist you.Be patient therefore, brethren, unto the coming of the Lord. Behold, the husbandman waiteth for the precious fruit of the earth, and hath long patience for it, until he receive the early and latter rain. Be ye also patient; stablish your hearts: for the coming of the Lord draweth nigh.Grudge not one against another, brethren, lest ye be condemned: behold, the judge standeth before the door. Take, my brethren, the prophets, who have spoken in the name of the Lord, for an example of suffering affliction, and of patience. Behold, we count them happy which endure. Ye have heard of the patience of Job, and have seen the end of the Lord; that the Lord is very pitiful, and of tender mercy. But above all things, my brethren, swear not, neither by heaven, neither by the earth, neither by any other oath: but let your yea be yea; and your nay, nay; lest ye fall into condemnation."
So if and when we find ourselves in and under harsh conditions and have not found a way out of them in our work circumstances we need to 1) acknowledge that judgement is coming upon the oppressor: (Lev. 9:13; Deut. 24:14,15; Jer. 22:13). In the mattereof the Lord's judgment the wealth of the oppessor is destnied to be a witness against them and the day will come when God shall judge the oppressor for "The coming of the Lord draweth nigh". God, the Lord of Sabaoth, the King hears you cry in your situation. Therefore "live patiently while in those harsh oppressive circumstances practicing the application of God’s word concerning patience in the circumstance (Jas.5). Establish your heart in the reality of the coming of the judge from heaven; watch and do not begrudge others and condemn yourselves; let your "yes be yes" and your "no be no" speaking the truth in all things; and remember the patient men of the faith in the past, such as Job, Elijah, David and Abraham as an example of suffering and affliction. Always walking in the steps of our Savior as he has truly been our example of suffering.
1 Peter 2:18-25 Servants, be subject to your masters with all fear; not only to the good and gentle, but also to the froward. For this is thankworthy, if a man for conscience toward God endure grief, suffering wrongfully. For what glory is it, if, when ye be buffeted for your faults, ye shall take it patiently? but if, when ye do well, and suffer for it, ye take it patiently, this is acceptable with God. For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps: Who did no sin, neither was guile found in his mouth: Who, when he was reviled, reviled not again; when he suffered, he threatened not; but committed himself to him that judgeth righteously: Who his own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness: by whose stripes ye were healed. For ye were as sheep going astray; but are now returned unto the Shepherd and Bishop of your souls.
We can take comfort in that the Lord God sees our affliction, hears our cries and knows our sorrows. He gives his people strength to carry on seemingly impossible tasks amid oppressive conditions as he did the beleives that were in bondage in Egypt. AMEN.
Exodus 3:1-10 Now Moses kept the flock of Jethro his father in law, the priest of Midian: and he led the flock to the backside of the desert, and came to the mountain of God, even to Horeb. And the angel of the LORD appeared unto him in a flame of fire out of the midst of a bush: and he looked, and, behold, the bush burned with fire, and the bush was not consumed. And Moses said, I will now turn aside, and see this great sight, why the bush is not burnt.And when the LORD saw that he turned aside to see, God called unto him out of the midst of the bush, and said, Moses, Moses. And he said, Here am I. And he said, Draw not nigh hither: put off thy shoes from off thy feet, for the place whereon thou standest is holy ground. Moreover he said, I am the God of thy father, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob. And Moses hid his face; for he was afraid to look upon God. And the LORD said, I have surely seen the affliction of my people which are in Egypt, and have heard their cry by reason of their taskmasters; for I know their sorrows; And I am come down to deliver them out of the hand of the Egyptians, and to bring them up out of that land unto a good land and a large, unto a land flowing with milk and honey; unto the place of the Canaanites, and the Hittites, and the Amorites, and the Perizzites, and the Hivites, and the Jebusites. Now therefore, behold, the cry of the children of Israel is come unto me: and I have also seen the oppression wherewith the Egyptians oppress them. Come now therefore, and I will send thee unto Pharaoh, that thou mayest bring forth my people the children of Israel out of Egypt.
Work, Wages and Riches
The necessity of work has been established. So now I will briefly look at work in relation to wages and the attainment of riches. Biblically neither labor nor wages is a result of the fall. It is only the hardship and pain connected with labor is the result of the fall. The difficulty in laboring to earn wages since the fall is a curse of the fall. In laboring and earning wages the body gets tired and sickly so that we have difficulty sometimes in production. The tools we work with become tattered, worn, and break causing difficulties and sometimes even accidents. Outside influences sometimes cause delays, and often failure to produce labor and therefore bringing difficulty in earning wages. And as we have just mentioned personalities and oppression against the employees by the masters cause difficulty in earning proper wages for the labor produced. However, even after the fall with even with the curse there is the blessing of God upon created mankind. For there would be a produce, and an earning, from the labor of man. The fall did not abrogate the ordinance of labor and its reward. Praise be to God!!!!
The scriptures cast no bad reflection upon riches accumlated by God ordained labor. The blessings given by the patriarchs upon their children were for abundant blessings: Jacob’s blessing to Isaac (27:28) and then to Easu (27:39). Take note of the riches of Abraham, David, and many of the fathers of the faith. The labors of their hands brought rewards, some of those rewards were abundant.
Labor in respect to pay is established in principle of case law by God in Deuteronomy. Deut 25:4 (ASV) Thou shalt not muzzle the ox when he treadeth out [the grain]. Therefore if an ox, over whom man is to have dominion and use for his service and good, is to be taken care of in a proper and orderly manner it is only right and proper to assume God will have men be paid for their service and labor so that thay may have food for lifes sustenance. The Lord himself stated in the Gospels that "the laborer is worthy of his hire" (Luke 10:7) and "the laborer is worthy of his food" (Matt. 10:10). The Apostle Paul also stated this truth in speaking of elders in the church and the pay they are to receive: 1Tim 5:17-18 (ASV) Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honor, especially those who labor in the word and in teaching. 18 For the scripture saith, Thou shalt not muzzle the ox when he treadeth out the corn. And, The laborer is worthy of his hire.
Wages and fairness in the work force are regulated by God. There is judgement coming upon the ones that would withold and be unfair to the laborers they are responsible for. Leviticus 19:13 Thou shalt not defraud thy neighbour, neither rob him: the wages of him that is hired shall not abide with thee all night until the morning. Jeremiah 22:13 Woe unto him that buildeth his house by unrighteousness, and his chambers by wrong; that useth his neighbour's service without wages, and giveth him not for his work".
Therefore if you are an employer you must know how are fair wages to be determined. The Bible gives the answer on this as well. The Scriptural balance on this issue is this: the extent of the labor debt or wages owed by the employer to the employee depends upon the nature and extent of the services rendered. The ox gets his feed and care, the labor is worthy of his hire, etc. Cor 3:8 (ASV) Now he that planteth and he that watereth are one: but each shall receive his own reward according to his own labor. Note this that a garbage collector does not command the pay of a Medical doctor and the head of a Math department is worth more in pay than the math teachers that are carrying forth the program he has established and a resturant worker as waiter and waiteress position does not command a wage equal to the chef or the manager. Therefore we must say that in the labor force there is no "equal fair price" for everyone so that all earn the same amount of money. Therefore we conclude that the extent of the labor debt owed by the employer to the employee depends upon the nature and extent of the services rendered.
That which is to govern wages cannot be merely a contract. A contract can dictate many good and proper things. It can at times state a fair wage for a service rendered. But, just because there is a contract, there is no assurance that the wage paid is fair in relation to the service rendered. There is also the point whereby an oppressive master could manipulate and coherce someone to sign a bad contract. A contract then can never be the determining factor concerning proper wages. The scriptures establishes a relationship between the employer and the employee. Take note that in the scripture there is to be more than a contractural, economic relationship between the employer and the employee. There is to be a social relationship for the person performing the work is called "thy neighbor". Therefore oppression by the employer, unfair pay and the withholding of pay by the employer is anti-social and is not to be done. The laborer is to receive pay in a timely manner with the employer acting toward his hired help or "neighbor with kindness, thoughtfulness and mercy. Without this there will be judgment come to the employer.
The Apostle Paul summed up the principle in which justice and equality are to be the standard. Masters, give unto your servants that which is just and equal; knowing that ye also have a Master in heaven." Colossians 4:1 Justice and equality, or a "fair and square" standard must govern wages. All wages must meet the requirements of fairness. The employer must be fair in both paying proper wages for services rendered and in the proper social relationship to the hired laborer. As the believing master was to treat the servant with fairness, so employers are to treat their servants (employees) with justice and equity in reference to wages paid for service rendered as well as in their relationships with one another. The masters or employers are to realize that as their servants are accountable to them then they are accountable to the Master in Heaven. Understanding this they will then treat their workers with consideration for their good and well-being.
Working for the love of money (that being your god in a selfish "me" only life) brings on sin and misery. Loving money spurs all kinds of evil. Loving money is not for the Christian. Paul writing to Timothy in the pastoral epistle of Timothy 6:10 declared that "the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows." An example of the evils the love of money can cause includes: a removal from the faith ..which in tern presents to the person many sorrows ( both in this life and in the life to come) if they are never redeemend by the blood of Christ. It must be understood that money does not cause evil doings but loving money as your motivating force and focus causes many evils. Money is necessary in a society and is nowhere condemned by God. The Bible nowhere condemns capitalism or a free society wherein wealth can be properly accumulated. We can think once again of Abraham, Job, David, Solomn, etc. As men of wealth there is nowhere in the Scriptures they are judged for their wealthy gains.
It would be impossible for us to try to trace evil upon evil that the love of money has caused. Just think for a minute:
1.) Families have been separated by divorce for the love of money. Money problems cause many family breakups.Men and women leave the family for labor and for others to attain wealth. Families breakup because of credit problems (coveting today what they cannot afford until tomorrow, purshasing it on credit and then living with constant stress). Spousal separation of money (yours is yours and mine is mine), etc., etc. Men have divorced and due to their non-married life style and hold to money do not support their children. The list can go on and on but I do hope that the point is clearly made that the love of money is the cause of multiple family sins.
2.) Men have left the worship of God to go after money and the wealth they may be able to attain (Matt 13:18-23; 2 Tim. 4:10)
3..) Men have been so elevated in pride so as to think that they themselves are as a god (Dan 4:30; Acts 12:21-24; Luke 12:15-21)
4.) Children have become disobedient to parents (1 Tim. 5:1-16)
5.) Robberies take place in many places and in many ways: actual breakins, lying on tax reports, tardiness at work and still getting paid for full days work, etc. (Eph. 4:28)
6.) Men have killed for money. (Luke 10:30-35)
7.) Men have made idols and promote false worship and ways of living for the love of monetary gain (Acts 16:16-24)
The Christian needs to understand and act in obedience to the fact that God does not want us to direct our affairs so as to attain money and wealth in an ill-gotton manner. Those that do love money will be judged. The rich fall into snares and many things that cause pain and sorrow. The difficulties that comes with the lust for riches is a stepping stoneleading then into hell. This covetoueness is idolatry, money is their god. It is the love of money which ensnares the rich and it is very hard for them to enter the kingdom. The only possible way is for God to make it possible!
Mark 10:23-27 And Jesus looked round about, and saith unto his disciples, How hardly shall they that have riches enter into the kingdom of God! And the disciples were astonished at his words. But Jesus answereth again, and saith unto them, Children, how hard is it for them that trust in riches to enter into the kingdom of God! It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God.And they were astonished out of measure, saying among themselves, Who then can be saved?And Jesus looking upon them saith, With men it is impossible, but not with God: for with God all things are possible.
Proverbs 28:20 A faithful man shall abound with blessings: but he that maketh haste to be rich shall not be innocent.
Proverbs 28:22 He that hasteth to be rich hath an evil eye, and considereth not that poverty shall come upon him.
Not all the rich people are unbelivers for God does call some wealthy and mighty into the kingdom. It is in the power of God that the idols of the heart are broken down. It is with Him that it is possible that rich men enter the kingdom of God. Praise God he does call men to himself for His own glory.
1 Corinthians 1:26 For ye see your calling, brethren, how that not many wise men after the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, are called: But God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty; And base things of the world, and things which are despised, hath God chosen, yea, and things which are not, to bring to nought things that are: That no flesh should glory in his presence.
It is possible for man to serve both God while having an accumulation of money. The scriptures teach believers what to watch out for in their lives so as not to be caught up in the snares of the riches. It also teaches the believer how to speak to lovers of money in calling them to repentance and faith in Jesus Christ
1 Timothy 6:17-19 Charge them that are rich in this world, that they be not highminded, nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy;That they do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to distribute, willing to communicate; Laying up in store for themselves a good foundation against the time to come, that they may lay hold on eternal life.
Matthew 6:20-34 But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal: For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also. The light of the body is the eye: if therefore thine eye be single, thy whole body shall be full of light.
But if thine eye be evil, thy whole body shall be full of darkness. If therefore the light that is in thee be darkness, how great is that darkness!No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon.
Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on. Is not the life more than meat, and the body than raiment? Behold the fowls of the air: for they sow not, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feedeth them. Are ye not much better than they?Which of you by taking thought can add one cubit unto his stature? And why take ye thought for raiment? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they toil not, neither do they spin: And yet I say unto you, That even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these.Wherefore, if God so clothe the grass of the field, which to day is, and to morrow is cast into the oven, shall he not much more clothe you, O ye of little faith?Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed? (For after all these things do the Gentiles seek:) for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things.
But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof.
God’s people learn be content. Laboring for the money that you love is idolatry. Money as we have seen does not bring contentment. It may bring pleasure for a little while, as it could have done for Moses had he decided to remain in Egypt (Heb 11:24-28). It will buy things or"stuff", but it cannot buy contentment, thankfulness, redemption, and a personal relationship with the "owner of the universe".
God’s people love Christ first. They work according to the biblical standard and allow our providential God bring to them what he desires. It is in this life of worship and godliness that they please him and find his blessings of contentment. It is godliness with contentment that is the goal of the Christian.
If God gives you riches then please follow the above godly lifestyle as the scriptures command and do not be ensared. I also want you to be strong in your faith and in the God that graciously provided for you and others in this matter. If God has so provided for you then there can be enjoyment for "God, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy". Be thanful and be a good steward loving Christ and obeying Him in all that he commands concerning that which he has given you. There is enjoyment in giving to others ( poor, widows, orphans, missionaries, etc.) in the kingdom of God. Remember it is more blessed to give than to receive.
A personal note to you:
For you the beleiver you can direct your life to live as God has directed since you have the indwelling and the power of the Holy Spirit. But perhaps you have read this and you are not a believer. You work for your own interests. For your own desires. You may not be rich but, why do you work? Is it just a necesity in your life? Are you just trying to survive? Do you find work the mundane thing you do every day? Do you or have you had trouble getting along with others in your job? Is it clear to you that you do not work as unto Christ?
For you who do not know Christ as Saviour you cannot experience the blessings of proper Biblical work ethics and relationships. You are lost and in your own selfish sinful drives and motives. You do not have the power of the Holt Spirit in order to obey God in love and action. You need to come to Christ in faith. Acknowledge and turn from your sin. Ask Christ to forgive you for living sinfully and selfishly as if there is no God. Tell Him that you desire to hold to the shed blood of Christ as the only way of salvation from sin.
Only then can you start a new life in Christ. You can learn of the matters in this study and start learning to live life abundantly according to the commands of the dear Saviour.
May God grant each one to live and work in this life to His glory for the Advancement of His kingdom and the common good of all of His creation.
