Bible Verses About Work

Bible verses about work, diligence, labor, and working for God's glory.

King James Version
23And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men;
Colossians 3:23
11He that tilleth his land shall be satisfied with bread: but he that followeth vain persons is void of understanding.
Proverbs 12:11
10For even when we were with you, this we commanded you, that if any would not work, neither should he eat.
2 Thessalonians 3:10
23In all labour there is profit: but the talk of the lips tendeth only to penury.
Proverbs 14:23
10Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might; for there is no work, nor device, nor knowledge, nor wisdom, in the grave, whither thou goest.
Ecclesiastes 9:10
15And the LORD God took the man, and put him into the garden of Eden to dress it and to keep it.
Genesis 2:15
3Commit thy works unto the LORD, and thy thoughts shall be established.
Proverbs 16:3
28Let him that stole steal no more: but rather let him labour, working with his hands the thing which is good, that he may have to give to him that needeth.
Ephesians 4:28
31Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God.
1 Corinthians 10:31
6Go to the ant, thou sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise:
Proverbs 6:6
24Knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ.
Colossians 3:24
8But if any provide not for his own, and specially for those of his own house, he hath denied the faith, and is worse than an infidel.
1 Timothy 5:8

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Bible say about work?

Colossians 3:23 says 'whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord.' The Bible presents work as honorable — God worked in creation (Genesis 2:2) and gave Adam work in the garden (Genesis 2:15). Laziness is condemned.

Should Christians view their work as service to God?

Yes — Colossians 3:23-24 says to work as unto the Lord, not men, knowing you serve Christ. 1 Corinthians 10:31 says to do all things to the glory of God, including everyday labor.

Is rest biblical or is constant work expected?

God modeled rest on the seventh day (Genesis 2:2-3) and commanded Sabbath rest for His people. Jesus invited the weary to find rest in Him (Matthew 11:28-29). Psalm 127:2 says it is vain to rise early and stay up late in anxious toil. The Bible balances diligence with trust-filled rest, condemning both laziness and workaholism.