Scripture Reading: Joel 2:28–29

As the prophets in the Bible see it, justice is not merely a secular issue. Good work arises directly from faithfulness to God’s covenant, and conversely, evil work takes us away from the presence of God.

Many otherwise legitimate ways of making a living may become unjust by the way they are performed. Should a photographer take pictures of anything a client asks, without regard for its effect on its subject and viewers? Should a surgeon perform any kind of elective surgery a patient might be willing to pay for? Is a mortgage broker responsible to ensure the ability of a borrower to repay the loan without undue hardship? If our work is a form of service under God, we cannot ignore such questions.

This is a reminder that the world of work does not exist in a vacuum, separated from the rest of life. If we do not ground our values and priorities in God’s covenant, then our lives and work will be ethically and spiritually incoherent. If we do not please God in our work, we cannot please him in our worship.

Prayer: Jesus, I hope to do my work in a way that serves you. May your love ground my values, priorities, and decisions today. Amen.

For Further Exploration: Read Working Unjustly (Hosea 4:1-10; Joel 2:28-29) from the Theology of Work Bible Commentary.

Author: Theology of Work Project

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