“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.” —Colossians 3:23-24
The Bible tells us that work is a gift from God. It is a way to serve others, provide for our families and bring glory to Him. Scripture also reminds us of the importance of rest—taking time to refresh our bodies and minds while remembering that our ultimate rest is found in Jesus Christ. This Labor Day, be reminded that God calls us to work faithfully while finding our true worth and rest in Him.
Billy Graham once said, “Work is a part of God’s plan for our lives. Work is not something we do just to put food on the table; it is one of the major ways God has given us to bring glory to Him.”
The Bible makes clear that our work matters to God. The Apostle Paul encouraged believers, “So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God” (1 Corinthians 10:31). Billy Graham explained that even the ordinary responsibilities of daily life can become opportunities to honor God when they are carried out faithfully.
Pointing to the examples of Jesus and the Apostle Paul, Billy Graham noted that for most of His earthly life, Jesus worked with His hands as a carpenter, while Paul earned his living as a tentmaker during his travels. From their examples, Billy Graham emphasized that honest work has dignity and importance—and that whatever work God has given us should be done with diligence, integrity and a desire to glorify Him.
At the same time, Billy Graham cautioned against allowing our jobs to take priority over our relationship with the Lord.
“Our work was never meant to become the center of our lives. That place belongs only to God, and when we allow our work to dominate and control us, then it has become an idol to us—and that is wrong,” Billy Graham wrote. “God says you are greater than your work, and your work is only a part of His plan for you.”
This Labor Day, join us in thanking God for the work He has given us—and take time to find true rest in His presence. If you’re seeking time to refresh your walk with Jesus Christ, explore upcoming Personal Spiritual Retreats and other events at The Cove.