Why Work?
Work brings dignity to people all over the world. Knowing and embracing God’s purpose for work offers a long-term solution to issues that plague the heart and the community.
We’re Created to Work
Through work, we understand our true identity. National studies suggest that joblessness does not bode well for our emotional health. The primary issue with the unemployed is dealing with the loss of identity. Without work, many begin to identify themselves with their circumstances. Welfare mom. Deadbeat dad. But we were created in the image of God, with value and worth. You are fearfully and wonderfully made, with gifts, talents, and purpose. This truth is confirmed through our work.
So God created mankind in his own image,in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them. God blessed them and said to them, “Be fruitful and increase in number; fill the earth and subdue it. Rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky and over every living creature that moves on the ground.”– Genesis 1:27-28
Work Is Good and Makes God’s World Work
Through work, we participate as co-creators with God. We use our gifts to care for His creation and allow it to flourish. No job is better than another. There is just as much dignity in the work of a janitor as a doctor. From the domestic worker to the teacher, it all makes the world go round and it is good in God’s eyes.
God saw all that He made and it was good.– Genesis 1:31
Work Brings Glory to God
We work for God and not for men. God is our boss. Therefore, every task, assignment or meeting, how great or small is an opportunity to shine a light on God and His goodness. We may not see it now, but it is a part of His master plan of building His kingdom. All of what we do, God is using our work as a declaration of his glory and power.
I have brought you glory on earth by finishing the work you gave me to do.– John 17:4
When People Don’t Work
A lack of work contributes to poverty, crime, homelessness, domestic violence, substance abuse, unwanted pregnancies, divorce, and suicide.
NOTHING ATTACKS ONE’S DIGNITY LIKE A LACK OF WORK.
The suffering and consequences of unemployment and underemployment are pervasive and heart-wrenching; it is self-perpetuating and tears at the fabric of society.
Click each consequence to learn how joblessness is a danger to society.