7 Bible Verses to Find the Motivation to Work

“The lazy do not roast any game, but the diligent feed on the riches of the hunt.” (Proverbs 12:27) We do complain about it often, but having a place to gain, grow, and share skills is really a blessing. In the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus tells us about the Parable of the Talents: Three servants receive money, but only two work to grow what they were given. We learn that the laziness and lack of initiative of the ineffectual servant earned him everlasting death. We must understand that as people, we each receive one or many skills that God expects us to put to use. We might sometimes be tired or weary, and that is why He gives us his word, to refresh us. Here are 7 passages from scripture to help you find the energy to be productive.

7 Pieces of Encouragement from the Bible to Work Efficiently

Work to avoid being struck by poverty

“How long will you lie there, you sluggard? When will you get up from your sleep? A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest—and poverty will come on you like a thief and scarcity like an armed man.” (Proverbs 6:9–11)

Work to eat

“For even when we were with you, we gave you this rule: “The one who is unwilling to work shall not eat.” (2 Thessalonians 3:10)

Work to help the poor

“Anyone who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with their own hands, that they may have something to share with those in need.” (Ephesians 4:28)

Work to see the fruits it bears

“Moreover, when God gives someone wealth and possessions, and the ability to enjoy them, to accept their lot and be happy in their toil—this is a gift of God.” (Ecclesiastes 5:19)

Work for Jesus Christ

“Obey them not only to win their favor when their eye is on you, but as slaves of Christ, doing the will of God from your heart. Serve wholeheartedly, as if you were serving the Lord, not people. because you know that the Lord will reward each one for whatever good they do, whether they are slave or free.” (Ephesians 6:6–8)

Work while you are able

“As long as it is day, we must do the works of him who sent me. Night is coming, when no one can work.” (John 9:4)

Cultivate proper virtues to always be productive

“For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; and to godliness, mutual affection; and to mutual affection, love. For if you possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.” (2 Peter 1:5–8)

FAQ about work in the Bible

What does the Bible say about work?

Five good reasons to work:

1. Work counters sloth (Proverbs 13:4).

2. Work helps us make our talents bear fruit (Matthew 25:14–30).

3. Work can glorify God through our efforts (Proverbs 22:29).

4. Work lets us contribute to society’s needs (2 Thessalonians 3:10).

5. Work reflects God’s image—he “worked” in creation (Genesis 2:2).

What is the psalm of work?

Psalm 127 highlights the value of labor—and of working with and for God:
“Unless the LORD builds the house, the builders labor in vain. Unless the LORD watches over the city, the guards stand watch in vain.” (Psalm 127:1)

Which Bible verse for professional success?

“The plans of the diligent lead to profit as surely as haste leads to poverty.” (Proverbs 21:5)