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What is Work Ethic?
How many times have you heard someone say, “This new generation lacks work ethic.” If it is a legitimate complaint, who is at fault? As the argument goes, the previous generations worked hard, so the following ones would have it easier. Eventually, the importance of hard work would lose its meaning, and the sense entitlement would creep into society. So what is work ethic?
By definition, work ethic is the belief that hard work is honorable, and is a moral good, worthy of reward.It is centered on the importance of doing work with diligence.
There is another lesser-known term called, Protestant Ethic (also Protestant Work Ethic). It’s defined by the view that a person’s duty is to achieve success through hard work and thrift, such success being a sign that one is saved.
Work Ethic in Spiritual Matters
Perhaps there is some merit to said criticism, but how many modern-day Christians have work ethic when it comes to spiritual matters, especially in affluent areas of the globe? For instance, how many actually dig in and study Scripture for themselves, versus them relying on “church leaders” to do it for them? Do they actually feed themselves, or are they waiting to be spoon-fed by the pastor? Ironically, the very ones who complain about the younger generation, may actually lack work ethic when it comes to things of God. No accusations here, but it does behoove each of us to look in the mirror before spouting off about someone else.
Spiritually speaking, what does work ethic look like? Before going further, let’s be clear, no one should be brought under some sort of bondage in the name of work ethic. Of course, that term can’t be found in the Bible, but that doesn’t mean it doesn’t exist.
Question, what good is earthly work ethic without spiritual work ethic? There are many hard workers, but what are they working for?
Matthew 6:19-21 Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys, and where thieves do not break in or steal; for where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
Nothing wrong with owning things, or having the proverbial nest egg; unless of course, it comes before God. Beware of covetousness. As Jesus put it: “For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world and forfeits his soul? Or what will a man give in exchange for his soul (Matthew 16:26 [read Luke 12:15-34])?” It’s important to keep in mind that everything on earth is going to burn. Stating the obvious, all earthly assets will burn as well. Our time on this planet is temporary, but how we spend it affects our eternity.
Work Ethic From a Spiritual Perspective
Ephesians 2:10 For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them.
We know we can earn nothing in terms of salvation; however, as the result of being saved, good works will ensue. Those works are faith-based.
1 Thessalonians 1:3 Remembering without ceasing your work of faith, and labour of love, and patience of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ, in the sight of God and our Father.
In essence, a work of faith is obedience to the Lord. Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God (Romans 10:17). Obeying Him means that we believe what He says, and seek to conform to His desires out of love. Hence, our labor is one of love. In everything it’s for His glory. At times, it may be good to ask ourselves, whom am I trying to please?
Here is a verse of Scripture that gives a great definition of work ethic: Servants, obey in all things your masters according to the flesh; not with eyeservice, as menpleasers; but in singleness of heart, fearing God: And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men; Knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ (Colossians 3:22-24 [see also Ephesians 6:5-8]).
