In what ways can Exodus 20:9 influence our approach to vocational stewardship? Scripture Focus “Six days you shall labor and do all your work,” (Exodus 20:9) The Six-Day Rhythm: God’s Pattern for Work • The command assumes diligent labor; it is not merely permission but expectation. • Genesis 2:15 shows the original call: “The LORD God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and keep it.” Work predates the Fall and is therefore good. • By setting six days for labor and one for rest (Exodus 20:10), God establishes a holy cadence that keeps us from laziness on one side and burnout on the other. Work as Worship • Colossians 3:23-24: “Whatever you do, work at it with your whole being, for the Lord and not for men… it is the Lord Christ you are serving.” • 1 Corinthians 10:31 ties every task to God’s glory. Vocational stewardship means our spreadsheets, classrooms, tools, and kitchens become altars of praise when offered to Him. Commissioned as Stewards • Ephesians 2:10 reminds us we are “created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance.” Every legitimate vocation fits within that advance preparation. • Stewardship involves caring for people, resources, and opportunities entrusted to us. Like Joseph in Genesis 39-41, faithful management can bless whole communities. Integrity and Excellence • Proverbs 22:29: “Do you see a man skilled in his work? He will stand before kings.” Skill developed for God’s glory opens doors for influence. • Exodus 31 highlights Bezalel’s Spirit-filled craftsmanship; excellence in work mirrors the excellence of our Creator. Rest and Balance • The same command that urges six days of labor also mandates Sabbath rest. A good steward guards margin, demonstrating trust that God—not endless hustle—sustains life and livelihood. • Mark 2:27 shows rest as gift: “The Sabbath was made for man.” Accepting this gift keeps work from becoming an idol. Practical Takeaways for the Workplace • Start the week recognizing vocation as a calling, not a mere paycheck. • Schedule tasks within a six-day framework, allowing one full day for worship, renewal, and family. • Pursue continual skill development; mastery honors the Giver of talents. • Cultivate honesty, punctuality, and reliability—integrity that adorns the gospel (Titus 2:9-10). • View colleagues and clients as image-bearers; serve them sacrificially, reflecting Christ’s love. • Evaluate success by faithfulness to God’s purposes, not solely by metrics or accolades. By embracing Exodus 20:9, vocational stewardship becomes a joyful partnership with the Creator—six purposeful days lived in His service, overflowing into a day of restorative rest. |
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