Worship Through Work: Embracing Biblical Principles

Introduction

Many people think of worship as the act of singing, praying, or praising within the walls of a church. However, true biblical worship is a holistic lifestyle. We are called to worship God through every action, including our work. As Paul emphasized, whatever we do must be done in faith, for anything done without faith is sin.

Here are two essential ways to view your work as an act of worship to God:

Work is a Gift from God

First, we must recognize that work itself is a gift from God. In the Garden of Eden, God gave Adam and Eve the task of tending and keeping the garden, providing them with life and resources.

Genesis 2:3 (NKJV) states:
“Then God blessed the seventh day and sanctified it, because in it He rested from all His work which God had created and made.”

Genesis 2:15 (NKJV) further emphasizes:
“Then the Lord God took the man and put him in the garden of Eden to tend and keep it.”

From these passages, we learn that God worked before man did, and He empowered humanity to work in His likeness. Our ability to work is a virtuous gift from God, enabling us to sustain His creation.

Work is Service to God

The second principle is that work is a form of service to God. Genesis 1:26-28 tells us that God created us in His image to work for Him.

Colossians 3:23-24 (NKJV) instructs:
“And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance; for you serve the Lord Christ.”

Ecclesiastes 9:10 (NKJV) adds:
“Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with your might; for there is no work or device or knowledge or wisdom in the grave where you are going.”

These verses remind us that our work should be done with the mindset of serving God, who will ultimately reward us. Though we work for human employers, our ultimate service is to God. The Jewish belief that all aspects of life are sacred supports this view. Life is indivisible into compartments like family time, church time, and work life; instead, all of life is an act of service to God.

Conclusion

Work is a divine gift, and our response should be to work for Him, trusting that He will reward us. It’s all about Him. Let our minds stay focused on God as we worship Him through our work.

What thoughts would you like to add? Share with us.

Eric Otchere writes content to help believers grow in grace. Connect with him via info@livingourbible.com.