Work is one of the themes Scripture returns to again and again. Scripture treats ordinary work with weight: it is one of the places we serve God and one another, even when it is hard or hidden.
People reach for these passages when they're looking up job, career, hate my job, burned out at work, or some version of "what does the Bible say about work?"
Among the most-cited passages on this theme are Colossians 3:23-24, Ecclesiastes 9:10, Proverbs 16:3, 1 Thessalonians 4:11-12, and others below. Colossians 3:23-24 is the passage many readers return to first.
The page also offers a written prayer that names work plainly and asks God for what's needed in this moment. It is not a magic formula — it is a small, faithful starting point.
A short reflection question sits at the bottom of the page: Whose face will your work touch today, and how can you bless them? Sit with it for a minute, or carry it into a journal.
If this isn't quite the right doorway, try a closely related theme: Purpose, Rest, Integrity.
Verses
Colossians 3:23-24
Whatever you do, work at it with your whole being, for the Lord and not for men, because you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as your reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.
Ecclesiastes 9:10
Whatever you find to do with your hands, do it with all your might, for in Sheol, where you are going, there is no work or planning or knowledge or wisdom.
Proverbs 16:3
Commit your works to the LORD and your plans will be achieved.
1 Thessalonians 4:11-12
and to aspire to live quietly, to attend to your own matters, and to work with your own hands, as we instructed you. Then you will behave properly toward outsiders, without being dependent on anyone.
Ephesians 6:5-9
Slaves, obey your earthly masters with respect and fear and sincerity of heart, just as you would obey Christ. And do this not only to please them while they are watching, but as servants of Christ, doing the will of God from your heart. Serve with good will, as to the Lord and not to men, because you know that the Lord will reward each one for whatever good he does, whether he is slave or free. And masters, do the same for your slaves. Give up your use of threats, because you know that He who is both their Master and yours is in heaven, and there is no favoritism with Him.
Psalms 90:17
May the favor of the Lord our God rest upon us; establish for us the work of our hands— yes, establish the work of our hands!
Reflection
Whose face will your work touch today, and how can you bless them?
Related topics
Want to search by feeling instead? Type what's on your heart on the home page.