Bible Reading: Genesis 1:28
Genesis 1:28 says, “God blessed them and said to them, ‘Be fruitful and increase in number; fill the earth and subdue it. Rule over the fish of the sea and the birds of the air and
over every living creature that moves on the ground.’” This verse is the first time that work is mentioned in the Bible. It is also the first time that work is mentioned in human history. Genesis 1:28 records the first job ever given to man.
What was the first job that a human being ever had to do?
Take care of the animals.
From the moment God created the first man, God intended people to work. Work was never intended to be a punishment. Work was to be a way to learn about God and His creations. It was to be a positive, constructive use of our time. It was to be fulfilling, interesting, and, yes, fun!
Whether your job is to be a student in high school, a parent, an athlete, a farmer, a businessperson, or the president of the United States, God wants you to enjoy your job and do it to the best of your ability. Doing that shows love for and obedience to God. It also shows God that you are thankful for the abilities that He has given you and for the way that He provides for you.
What is your attitude toward the work that you have to do? Do you grumble about it or are you grateful for it? What can you do to improve the attitude that you have toward work?
Work was given to us by God to be a blessing and a way to honor God and serve one another. Thank God for your job. Ask Him to help you work with an attitude of love, thankfulness, and joy.
“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
Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for taking care of me and providing me with constructive work to do. I’m sorry that I’ve grumbled about my work in the past. Teach me to appreciate my work. In Jesus’ name. Amen.