Is a Christian's work important?

Question
Is a Christian’s work important? I’m not speaking of being an elder or a deacon, but just a normal person in the pew. Is their work important?
Answer
Yes, all work matters; a person’s work is significant not only today but in eternity as well.

Briefly, work was one of the very first principles that God established for mankind (cf. Gen. 2:15). Even God works (John 5:17). “In all [our] toil there is profit” (Prov. 14:23). Working serves many purposes in our lives, and this not only a means of provision for our families (1 Thess. 3:10; cf. Prov. 12:11; 1 Tim. 5:8), but in giving us resources to share with others (cf. Eph. 4:28).

When considering our work there are some things to always bear in mind. Each of us has a calling, at times more than one. In 1 Corinthians 7:17-24 we observe that saints are:

  • Called to God
  • Called to work
  • Called to contentment
  • Called to faithfulness

We should always keep the above principles in mind, while taking pleasure (cf. Eccl. 3:13), praying (Psa. 90:17) and doing our work with all our might (Eccl. 8:10; 1 Thess. 4:11; cf. Prov. 10:4; 24:30-34).

In addition to God’s calling on our lives, we should also do all our work for the glory of God. In 1 Corinthians 10:31 Paul says, “So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God” (cf. 1 Cor. 16:14). He doubles down on this principle writing in Colossians 3:23, “Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men” (cf. Prov. 16:3).

Every minute of our work matters and there are many other principles regarding our work. But while serving well in our calling(s), we should do so in a consciously Christian way by faithfully presenting Jesus to those all around us.

Answer by Dr. Joseph R. Nally, Jr.

Dr. Joseph R. Nally, Jr., D.D., M.Div. is the Theological Editor at Third Millennium Ministries (Thirdmill).