Opening:
- Scripture: Colossians 3:23-24 (NKJV)
“And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance; for you serve the Lord Christ.” - Point: Our work is an opportunity to serve and honor God, not just a means to earn a living.
Main Points:
- Work as a Divine Calling
- Scripture: 1 Corinthians 10:31 (NKJV)
“Therefore, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.” - Point: Every aspect of our work should be done with the intention of glorifying God, recognizing that our labor is part of our service to Him.
- Practical Application: Reflect on your daily tasks. How can you approach them with a mindset of glorifying God? Seek to bring excellence and integrity into your work.
2. Work as a Testimony of Christian Character
- Scripture: Ephesians 6:5-7 (NKJV)
“Bondservants, be obedient to those who are your masters according to the flesh, with fear and trembling, in sincerity of heart, as to Christ; not with eyeservice, as men-pleasers, but as bondservants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart, with goodwill doing service, as to the Lord, and not to men.” - Point: Our work ethic and integrity should reflect our commitment to Christ, serving with sincerity and dedication rather than just for human approval.
- Practical Application: Examine your work habits. Are you known for your honesty, reliability, and respectful attitude? Strive to be a positive testimony of Christian values in your workplace.
3. Balancing Work and Rest
- Scripture: Exodus 20:9-10 (NKJV)
“Six days you shall labor and do all your work, but the seventh day is the Sabbath of the Lord your God. In it you shall do no work…” - Point: God’s design for work includes a balance of rest. Proper rest is crucial for maintaining physical, emotional, and spiritual health, and it honors God’s command for rhythm in life.
- Practical Application: Assess your work-life balance. Are you allowing yourself adequate rest and time for spiritual renewal? Prioritize a healthy rhythm of work and rest to maintain overall well-being.
4. Using Work to Serve Others
- Scripture: 1 Thessalonians 4:11-12 (NKJV)
“that you also aspire to lead a quiet life, to mind your own business, and to work with your own hands, as we commanded you, that you may walk properly toward those who are outside, and that you may lack nothing.” - Point: Our work should not only support ourselves but also enable us to contribute positively to our community and serve others, reflecting the love and generosity of Christ.
- Practical Application: Look for ways your work can benefit others. Consider how you can use your skills and resources to serve your community and support charitable causes.
Closing:
- Scripture: Proverbs 16:3 (NKJV)
“Commit your works to the Lord, and your thoughts will be established.” - Point: By committing our work to the Lord, we align our efforts with His will and purpose, ensuring that our work becomes a testament to His grace and our devotion.
Steps of Salvation:
- Hear the Gospel
- Scripture: Romans 10:17 (NKJV)
“So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.” - Point: Understand that the message of salvation is central to our faith and life, including how we approach our work.
- Believe in Christ
- Scripture: John 3:16 (NKJV)
“For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.” - Point: Trust in Jesus Christ as your Savior and recognize that your work is part of living out your faith in Him.
- Repent of Sin
- Scripture: Acts 2:38 (NKJV)
“Then Peter said to them, ‘Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.'” - Point: Acknowledge and turn away from sin, including how your work and actions might need to align with God’s standards.
- Confess Christ
- Scripture: Romans 10:9 (NKJV)
“that if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.” - Point: Declare your faith in Jesus openly, allowing this confession to guide your work and vocation.
- Be Baptized
- Scripture: Mark 16:16 (NKJV)
“He who believes and is baptized will be saved; but he who does not believe will be condemned.” - Point: Follow through with baptism as an outward sign of your inner faith and commitment to live a life that honors God in all aspects, including your work.
- Live Faithfully
- Scripture: Revelation 2:10 (NKJV)
“Do not fear any of those things which you are about to suffer. Indeed, the devil is about to throw some of you into prison, that you may be tested, and you will have tribulation ten days. Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life.” - Point: Commit to living a life of faithfulness in all areas, including your work, reflecting Christ in your daily responsibilities and interactions.