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Author: Joe Firn, from the Word of Life in Ann Arbor, Michigan.

In the book of Genesis, we read of work for the first time in the garden of Eden. It says, “The LORD God took the man and put him in the garden of Eden to work it and keep it.” (Genesis 2:15)

From the beginning the Lord willed that work be a natural part of our life. It comes in many forms: school, home making, service, the marketplace. All work that doesn’t violate the commandments is honorable. Some work is above us; no work should be below us. From God’s point of view, He has a four-fold purpose for work:

1. We are called to be a co-creator with Him by continuing to develop the world around us.
2. We are called to co-redeem the world by becoming a missionary to the workplace.
3. We glorify God by making use of the gifts and abilities He has given us and applying them to an area of need.
4. Our work allows us to make a livelihood that supports our way of life and contribute financially to the building of the Lord’s Kingdom.

Together, these four purposes allow our Work Life to add meaning and purpose to our life and gives us an opportunity to make a difference in the world around us.

Today, ask the Lord to help you become more conscious and intentional of His call to you at work.

Scripture quotations are from The ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.