“And also that every man should eat and drink, and enjoy the good of all his labour, it is the gift of God.”— Ecclesiastes 3:13
From the very beginning, God designed work as part of His divine purpose for mankind. In Genesis, before sin entered the world, Adam was placed in the Garden of Eden “to dress it and to keep it” (Genesis 2:15). Work was not a punishment—it was a purpose. Ecclesiastes 3:13 reminds us that it is God’s will not only that we work but that we find joy and satisfaction in our labor. When we eat, drink, and enjoy the fruit of our efforts, we are partaking in a divine gift.
This scripture counters the belief that work is merely a means of survival. Instead, it teaches us that labor is sacred and purposeful. God wants us to thrive, to be fulfilled, and to see the value of our contributions—whether in the workplace, in ministry, or at home. Our work is a reflection of God’s nature, for He too is a worker—creating, sustaining, and providing.
However, the truth also remains that our efforts alone are not enough. We may work hard and still feel unfulfilled or see little progress. This reminds us that while we are called to diligence, the prosperity of our work rests in God’s hands. Psalm 127:1 says, “Except the Lord build the house, they labour in vain that build it.” No matter how skilled or committed we are, we need the blessing of God to truly prosper.
Thus, we must not only work but work with God—inviting Him into our careers, our projects, and our daily tasks. When we align our efforts with His will, He breathes life into our labor. He grants us wisdom, favor, and fruitfulness. It is God who gives the power to get wealth (Deuteronomy 8:18), and it is His desire that we enjoy—not just endure—the journey.
So, as you go about your responsibilities today, remember that your work matters. Whether big or small, public or private, it is part of God’s plan. And He wants you not just to work, but to enjoy the good of all your labor. That joy, that satisfaction, is His gift to you.
Prayer
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for the gift of work. Help me to see my labor as a calling and not a burden. Teach me to honor You in all that I do and to rely on Your strength and blessing for fruitfulness. Prosper the work of my hands and let me enjoy the good of my efforts. May I always remember that it is You who gives increase. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Related Scriptures
- Proverbs 16:3
- Psalm 90:17
- Deuteronomy 8:18
RELATED DEVOTIONAL
30 April, 2025
The Gift of Labor
“And also that every man should eat and drink, and enjoy the good of all his labour, it is the gift of God.”— Ecclesiastes 3:13
From the very beginning, God designed work as part of His divine purpose for mankind. In Genesis, before sin entered the world, Adam was placed in the Garden of Eden “to dress it and to keep it” (Genesis 2:15). Work was not a punishment—it was a purpose. Ecclesiastes 3:13 reminds us that it is God’s will not only that we work but that we find joy and satisfaction in our labor. When we eat, drink, and enjoy the fruit of our efforts, we are partaking in a divine gift.
This scripture counters the belief that work is merely a means of survival. Instead, it teaches us that labor is sacred and purposeful. God wants us to thrive, to be fulfilled, and to see the value of our contributions—whether in the workplace, in ministry, or at home. Our work is a reflection of God’s nature, for He too is a worker—creating, sustaining, and providing.
However, the truth also remains that our efforts alone are not enough. We may work hard and still feel unfulfilled or see little progress. This reminds us that while we are called to diligence, the prosperity of our work rests in God’s hands. Psalm 127:1 says, “Except the Lord build the house, they labour in vain that build it.” No matter how skilled or committed we are, we need the blessing of God to truly prosper.
Thus, we must not only work but work with God—inviting Him into our careers, our projects, and our daily tasks. When we align our efforts with His will, He breathes life into our labor. He grants us wisdom, favor, and fruitfulness. It is God who gives the power to get wealth (Deuteronomy 8:18), and it is His desire that we enjoy—not just endure—the journey.
So, as you go about your responsibilities today, remember that your work matters. Whether big or small, public or private, it is part of God’s plan. And He wants you not just to work, but to enjoy the good of all your labor. That joy, that satisfaction, is His gift to you.
Prayer
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for the gift of work. Help me to see my labor as a calling and not a burden. Teach me to honor You in all that I do and to rely on Your strength and blessing for fruitfulness. Prosper the work of my hands and let me enjoy the good of my efforts. May I always remember that it is You who gives increase. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Related Scriptures
- Proverbs 16:3
- Psalm 90:17
- Deuteronomy 8:18
