Dear reader:
During the Beat the Heat inItiative at my work, I’ve been reminded about how much time we spend at work. Anytime the heat index is above 105 degrees Fahrenheit, the homeless ministry that I work at stays open later. That’s made for some long days. We’ve had 36 days this Summer that have caused us to stay open later so that our homeless neighbors can get a reprieve from the oppressive heat.
A 2021 Gallup survey found that 41% of American workers spend 45+ hours at their respective job. For many people, working 50 hours or more is a regular occurrence.
Even if you work the 38 hour average that many Americans spend at their job, you’re spending one-third of your week at work.
God designed us for work. Work is something God ordained early on, way before the Fall.
The Lord God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and take care of it.
Genesis 2:15 (NIV)
Responsibility has been part of God’s plan for us since the beginning. That’s what work is, after all. Work is being responsible for something. We tend to it. We watch over it. We get things done. That’s work, in a nutshell.
All that said, sometimes each of us need an encouraging reminder to help us perform our work in such a way that keeps us going and that honors God in the process.
Here are seven Bible verses to encourage you in your work:
- “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.” Colossians 3:23
- “Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans.” Proverbs 16:3
- “Do not despise the day of small things.” Zechariah 4:10
- “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” Galatians 6:9
- “In all toil there is profit, but mere talk tends only to poverty.” Proverbs 14:23
- “The plans of the diligent lead to profit as surely as haste leads to poverty.” Proverbs 21:5
- “And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.” Colossians 3:17
These 7 verses help remind us to work diligently, with integrity, and to entrust all of our human efforts to God, recognizing that our work is ultimately for His glory.
I pray that as you rest from your work these Scriptures will refresh, recharge, and encourage you.
Blessings,
Rainer Bantau
The Devotional Guy™
#bgbg2#BibleGateway
The Devotional Guy™ 
It definitely captures a powerful thought, Beth. I’m glad it resonated with you. What you’re doing has significance and impact. I think that’s all any of us would hope for from our work. Thanks for taking the time to read and comment.
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“Do not despise the day of small things.” Zechariah 4:10 This scripture really hit home in a good way, Rainer. As a mom, homemaker, and homeschool educator of only 2 kids my days can seem to be filled with a lot of small things compared to my friends working corporate jobs or are still teaching in the classroom. I needed a perspective check. It reminds me of the song “Dream Small” by Josh Wilson.
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Hallelujah! For real, for real.
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“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.” Colossians 3:23
I learned to love my work. I’m disabled 26 years now and no matter what I can accomplish, I count it all Joy!
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This is true.
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I hear you, brother. Your mechanic bill is probably still cheaper than buying another truck. Vehicle prices have skyrocketed!
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No doubt, Sue. Hallelujah!
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We have lots of work even in retirement! I don’t know when we found time to go to work. Your picture reminds me that I need to mop the floor, and I will remind myself that it is for the glory of the Lord.
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Amen. I second that emotion.
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Thank you, Rainer. I appreciate my job and usually enjoy the work. But when things get tough, I do need a little nudge to get my attitude in the right place. Thank you for these verses.
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Couldn’t agree more. Retired December 2022, but I’m not retired.
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Thank you, David. I appreciate your prayers and your comments. After a long week in the shop, my truck is doing great. Although, I may need to create a fundraiser to pay for the repairs. LOL. Enjoy your weekend!
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I ❤️ this post, brother. Our work can be tedious, but it can also be extremely rewarding. Your scriptures on work are awesome. My favorite is this one from Zechariah.
“Do not despise the day of small things.”
Elementary schools have lots of small beginnings, ones that lead to somewhere great—with proper teaching and love.
Speaking of love, how is your truck? Has it been repaired?
Prayers continue for your ministry.
Blessings, brother!
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