Work Ethic

In the past, we were defined by the New England work ethic. People believed that they should work hard and diligently. It was seen as a calling form God. It stemmed from New England's strong church-going roots. Work was fulfilling that calling.

Looking back many Christians feel that while the work ethic was good for productivity, it gave a false sense of security. People trusted in their works. They saw their hard work as righteousness. They believed they trusted in their good work for salvation. They believed that they could pick themselves up from their bootstraps, instead of believing on the free gift of God. (Ephesians 2:8-9)

In recent years, we have seen the work ethic all but disappear from New England. Many people don't work had but do the bare minimum. Many choose not to work at all but rely on government programs. We have seen an increased laziness.

Many believe work is punishment because of the fall.This is not Biblical. Genesis 2:15 says that Adam was to dress and keep the garden. Work was not laborious toil. That came after the fall. 2 Thessalonians 3:10 says that if anyone refuses to work, they should not eat. Is work a Biblical calling? I believe it is. We spend so much time working, we should use it to glorify God.

Does the work ethic give a false impression that you can work for your salvation? Yes, it could. There has been an over reliance on work. Does that mean that the work ethic should be disbanded? The Bible condemns laziness. Both the unbelieving hard worker and the unbelieving sluggard are lost. We in our society don't like hard work. many who are hard workers are labelled workaholics. People who work hard should be celebrated.

People often view a call as a call to ministry. All Christians are called to ministry. The mission field is where ever you happen to be. We should not work to be saved, but we should work. Idleness is the devil's workshop. It is harder to fall into sin if you're busy.

It is important for God's people to work hard. We are to provide for our family. Our work is a high calling. We should do it to the best of our ability. So what are we waiting for? Let's get to work.