Scripture Reading: Genesis 3:16, 4:1-2, Philippians 4:1-3, 19
Because both the first woman and the first man disobeyed God’s earliest commandment, work became more difficult. Adam finds that his original work (gardening) is much harder, while Eve’s greatest difficulty is childbearing.
Nonetheless, God helps Eve with the work of parenting. Eve says about her firstborn, “I have produced a man with the help of the Lord.” It is only through God’s help that we can do any work, whether it’s parenting, ministry, or work in the marketplace. In Philippians 4, Paul writes to both men and women about their work together building the church in Philippi. He encourages these men and women, telling them that God will help them and meet all their needs.
Wherever we work today, whether at home or in a paid workplace, God is with us when things get painful or difficult. God has not abandoned us because of our sin. Rather, God wants to help us in our work.
Prayer: God, be with me in my work today. I need your help. Let me know your presence when I am in pain or difficulty. Amen.
Further Exploration: After the Fall, our work is more important than ever. Read People Work in a Fallen Creation from the Theology of Work Bible Commentary.
Author: Theology of Work Project
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Unless otherwise noted, the Scripture quotations contained herein are from the New Revised Standard Version Bible, Copyright © 1989, Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the U.S.A., and are used by permission. All rights reserved.
