Question 357: How do you approach work as a Christian?

Answer:

I approach work as a Christian by offering it to God as worship, doing it with honesty, diligence, and love. I remember that my labor is not merely for earthly gain but for the glory of God and the good of others. I work with gratitude, trusting God for the outcome, and seeking to reflect Christ’s character in all I do. Whether in success or struggle, I rest in God’s grace, knowing that no labor done for the Lord is ever in vain. (Colossians 3:17, Ecclesiastes 9:10, 1 Corinthians 10:31, Proverbs 16:3, 1 Corinthians 15:58)

Full Scripture References

“And whatever you do, in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.” – Colossians 3:17 (BSB)

“Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might…” – Ecclesiastes 9:10 (BSB)

“So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all to the glory of God.” – 1 Corinthians 10:31 (BSB)

“Commit your works to the LORD, and your plans will be achieved.” – Proverbs 16:3 (BSB)

“Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast and immovable. Always excel in the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.” – 1 Corinthians 15:58 (BSB)

Expanded Explanation of Catechism Question

The Christian approaches work not as a burden or an end in itself, but as a sacred opportunity to honor God. Work, when submitted to Christ, becomes a form of worship and a way to love our neighbor. Bishop Charlie Masters (ANiC, Diocese of the Living Word) writes, “A Christian doesn’t work for men, but for the Master. Whether you’re leading a business or sweeping a floor, if it’s done for Christ, it is holy.” (Labor Unto the Lord, 2022)

Approaching work Christianly means beginning with gratitude and prayer, committing the task to God, and doing it with excellence, honesty, and humility. Fr. Isaac Rehberg (ACNA, All Saints San Antonio, TX) explains, “We bring Christ into our work not by hanging a cross on the wall, but by doing every task with truth, patience, and integrity.” (The Theology of Ordinary Work, 2021)

The Christian understands that even mundane or difficult work has eternal value when offered to God. Fr. Caleb Evans (Anglican Orthodox Church, St. Stephen’s Mission, GA) teaches, “Your labor is never wasted when done in faith. Every moment of effort, done in love, becomes a stone in God’s invisible kingdom.” (Serving Faithfully in All Things, 2020)

We also approach work with balance—honoring Sabbath rest, resisting idolatry, and trusting God for provision. Fr. Thomas Buchan (Anglican Union, St. Mark’s Anglican Church, VA) writes, “To approach work Christianly is to work hard, rest well, and remember you are not your job—you are Christ’s.” (Work and Rest in Christ, 2021)

Canon George Grant (ACNA, Parish Presbyterian Church, TN) adds, “A Christian’s ambition is not success but faithfulness. We labor not for applause, but because the Lord has called us. The smallest task, done in love, echoes in eternity.” (Recovering Anglican Piety, 2019)

Early Church Fathers on Catechism Question

“Let each man do his work with joy, as serving not men but God. Labor becomes light when it is done in love.” – Augustine of Hippo, Homily on Christian Duty, c. 410 AD

“Do not despise small labors, for the Lord sees all. The hand that toils in faith honors the Creator.” – Basil the Great, Homily on Work and Holiness, c. 370 AD

“Whatever you do, begin it with prayer and end it with thanksgiving. For all work becomes praise when offered to God.” – John Chrysostom, Homily on 1 Corinthians 10, c. 390 AD

“The Christian works not for gold, but for God. Let the heart remain in heaven, even as the hands labor on earth.” – Cyprian of Carthage, On Faithful Labor, c. 250 AD