What does the Bible say about working overtime?
Bible Topic · WEB
The Bible commends diligent work but warns against making endless labor the source of security, identity, or hope. Proverbs 14:23 teaches that labor brings profit, while Proverbs 23:4 cautions against exhausting oneself to become rich. Colossians 3:23 calls believers to work wholeheartedly for the Lord, serving Christ rather than merely human employers. Yet Psalm 127:2 reminds us that God gives rest to His beloved and that anxious toil cannot replace His providential care. Hebrews 13:5 urges contentment, trusting God’s faithful presence, and Philippians 4:13 grounds strength in Christ rather than self-reliance. Overtime may sometimes be necessary or loving, but it should be governed by wisdom, worship, rest, and trust in God.
Top passages, ranked by readers
Rankings: OpenBible.info Topical Bible (CC BY) · Scripture: World English Bible
- Proverbs 23:4
Don't weary yourself to be rich. In your wisdom, show restraint.
- Hebrews 13:5
Be free from the love of money, content with such things as you have, for he has said, "I will in no way leave you, neither will I in any way forsake you."
- Proverbs 14:23
In all hard work there is profit, But the talk of the lips leads only to poverty.
- Colossians 3:23
And whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord, and not for men,
- Philippians 4:13
I can do all things through Christ, who strengthens me.
- John 10:10
The thief only comes to steal, kill, and destroy. I came that they may have life, and may have it abundantly.
- Psalms 127:2
It is vain for you to rise up early, To stay up late, Eating the bread of toil; For he gives sleep to his loved ones.
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