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What does the Bible say about labor day?

Bible Topic · WEB

The Bible teaches that work is a good gift and calling from God, to be done diligently, honestly, and for his glory, while rest is received as a gracious provision from him. Believers are to labor not merely for earthly reward but as servants of Christ, trusting him for their inheritance (Colossians 3:23-24). Scripture commends productive work, generosity, and provision for one’s household, while warning against idleness (Ephesians 4:28; 2 Thessalonians 3:10-12; 1 Timothy 5:8). Yet God also commands regular rest, and Jesus invites the weary to find true rest in him (Exodus 20:9-10; Matthew 11:28-30). Our labor is steadfast but never ultimate, for it is the Lord who gives it lasting fruit (1 Corinthians 15:58; Proverbs 16:3).

Top passages, ranked by readers

Rankings: OpenBible.info Topical Bible (CC BY) · Scripture: World English Bible

  • Ephesians 4:28

    Let him who stole steal no more; but rather let him labor, working with his hands the thing that is good, that he may have something to give to him who has need.

  • Colossians 3:23-24

    [23] And whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord, and not for men, [24] knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance; for you serve the Lord Christ.

  • Proverbs 14:23

    In all hard work there is profit, But the talk of the lips leads only to poverty.

  • 2 Thessalonians 3:10-12

    [10] For even when we were with you, we commanded you this: "If anyone will not work, neither let him eat." [11] For we hear of some who walk among you in rebellion, who don't work at all, but are busybodies. [12] Now those who are that way, we command and exhort in the Lord Jesus Christ, that with quietness they work, and eat their own bread.

  • Matthew 11:28-30

    [28] "Come to me, all you who labor and are heavily burdened, and I will give you rest. [29] Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart; and you will find rest for your souls. [30] For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light."

  • 1 Corinthians 15:58

    Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the Lord's work, because you know that your labor is not in vain in the Lord.

  • Exodus 20:9-10

    [9] You shall labor six days, and do all your work, [10] but the seventh day is a Sabbath to Yahweh your God. You shall not do any work in it, you, nor your son, nor your daughter, your man-servant, nor your maid-servant, nor your cattle, nor your stranger who is within your gates;

  • 1 Timothy 5:8

    But if anyone doesn't provide for his own, and especially his own household, he has denied the faith, and is worse than an unbeliever.

  • Proverbs 6:6-8

    [6] Go to the ant, you sluggard. Consider her ways, and be wise; [7] Which having no chief, overseer, or ruler, [8] Provides her bread in the summer, And gathers her food in the harvest.

  • Proverbs 16:3

    Commit your deeds to Yahweh, And your plans shall succeed.

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