Some people work to make heaps of money. Others work to keep up their image and status. Some work as little as possible to spend their time in pleasures. Others work out of sheer habit, and because they don't know how to get out of the rut. There are probably other not-so-good reasons for working, but what are the Christian's reasons? What are good and godly reasons for working?

To Please the Lord and Receive His Reward

The Christian is not interested so much in the worldly rewards, as in serving and pleasing the Lord through daily work (Jhn 6:27, Col 3:23-25).

To Set a Good Example

The Christian realizes that “actions speak louder than words” and the sermon that has a powerful influence on others is the sermon of a godly life —a life lived daily in the world but not of the world. Paul the tentmaker set such an example (Gal 2:20, 1Th 4:11-12, 2Th 3:7-9, Acts 18:3).

So as Not to be in Any Need nor be a Burden to Others

The Christian realizes that if "the laborer is worthy of his hire" then those who are able yet refuse to work, are unworthy and should receive nothing. The Christian works to be self-supporting or to deserve the support he or she receives (1Tm 5:18, 1Th 2:9, 1Th 4:11-12, 2Th 3:10-12).

So as to Have Something to Give and Share with Those in Need

The Christian seeks to be a net contributor —to give more to a community than he receives from it. The target of his giving is genuine need (Eph 4:28).

To Have Fellowship in the Church

The Christian loves the brotherhood, and knows that there is no room or tolerance in it for loafers and spongers (2Th 3:11-15).

For all the above reasons, Christians seek to be doing something good, and to be gainfully employed.

Home | Topics | List | Next