What does the Bible say about work ethic?
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The Bible teaches that diligent, honest work is a God-honoring calling, to be done wholeheartedly for his glory and the good of others. Colossians 3:23 calls believers to work as for the Lord, while Proverbs 16:3 urges us to commit our labors to him. Proverbs commends steady effort, warning that laziness brings want and that mere talk does not produce gain. Ecclesiastes 9:10 encourages doing with strength whatever God has given us to do. Yet work is not self-salvation or an excuse for greed: 1 Corinthians 10:31 directs all we do to God's glory, and Acts 20:35 reminds us to use our labor to give generously.
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Rankings: OpenBible.info Topical Bible (CC BY) · Scripture: World English Bible
- Colossians 3:23
And whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord, and not for men,
- Proverbs 16:3
Commit your deeds to Yahweh, And your plans shall succeed.
- Proverbs 14:23
In all hard work there is profit, But the talk of the lips leads only to poverty.
- 2 Thessalonians 3:10
For even when we were with you, we commanded you this: "If anyone will not work, neither let him eat."
- Ecclesiastes 9:10
Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with your might; for there is no work, nor device, nor knowledge, nor wisdom, in Sheol, where you are going.
- Proverbs 10:4
He becomes poor who works with a lazy hand, But the hand of the diligent brings wealth.
- Acts 20:35
In all things I gave you an example, that so laboring you ought to help the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, that he himself said, 'It is more blessed to give than to receive.'"
- Proverbs 12:11
He who tills his land shall have plenty of bread, But he who chases fantasies is void of understanding.
- 1 Corinthians 10:31
Whether therefore you eat, or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.
- Proverbs 13:4
The soul of the sluggard desires, and has nothing, But the desire of the diligent shall be fully satisfied.
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