Topical Encyclopedia Laboring, in the biblical context, encompasses the physical, spiritual, and moral efforts exerted by individuals in their daily lives and in service to God. The Bible provides numerous references to labor, emphasizing its significance, purpose, and the attitude with which it should be undertaken.Biblical Foundation of Labor The concept of labor is introduced early in the Scriptures. In Genesis 2:15, God places Adam in the Garden of Eden "to work it and take care of it" . This establishes labor as part of God's original design for humanity, intended for stewardship and productivity. After the Fall, labor becomes more toilsome, as seen in Genesis 3:17-19, where God tells Adam that he will eat from the ground through painful toil. Labor as a Divine Mandate Throughout the Bible, labor is portrayed as a divine mandate. The Fourth Commandment, found in Exodus 20:9-10, instructs, "Six days you shall labor and do all your work, but the seventh day is a Sabbath to the LORD your God" . This commandment underscores the balance between work and rest, highlighting the importance of diligent labor while also recognizing the need for rest and worship. The Dignity of Labor The Scriptures affirm the dignity of labor, regardless of its nature. In Proverbs 14:23, it is written, "In all labor there is profit, but mere talk leads only to poverty" . This verse emphasizes the value of hard work and the tangible benefits it brings. The Apostle Paul, in his letters, often speaks of laboring for the sake of the Gospel. In 1 Corinthians 15:58, he encourages believers to be "steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor in the Lord is not in vain" . Labor and Provision The Bible also links labor with provision and sustenance. In 2 Thessalonians 3:10, Paul instructs, "If anyone is not willing to work, neither shall he eat" . This principle underscores the expectation that individuals should work to provide for themselves and their families. Additionally, Proverbs 31:13-31 describes the industriousness of the virtuous woman, who "works with willing hands" and "provides food for her household" . Spiritual Labor Beyond physical labor, the Bible speaks of spiritual labor. Jesus, in John 6:27, advises, "Do not work for food that perishes, but for food that endures to eternal life, which the Son of Man will give you" . This highlights the importance of prioritizing spiritual endeavors and seeking eternal rewards. Attitude Toward Labor The attitude with which one approaches labor is of great importance in Scripture. Colossians 3:23-24 instructs, "Whatever you do, work at it with your whole being, for the Lord and not for men, because you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as your reward" . This passage encourages believers to work diligently and with integrity, as their ultimate service is to God. Rest from Labor While labor is essential, the Bible also emphasizes the need for rest. The concept of Sabbath rest, as seen in Exodus 20:8-11, provides a rhythm of work and rest, allowing individuals to rejuvenate physically and spiritually. Jesus Himself exemplified this balance, often withdrawing to solitary places to pray and rest (Mark 1:35). Eternal Perspective on Labor Finally, the Bible offers an eternal perspective on labor. Revelation 14:13 states, "Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on. 'Yes,' says the Spirit, 'they will rest from their labor, for their deeds will follow them'" . This assurance of eternal rest and reward encourages believers to persevere in their earthly labors, knowing that their efforts have lasting significance in God's kingdom. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (p. pr. & vb. n.) of Labor.2. (a.) That labors; performing labor; esp., performing coarse, heavy work, not requiring skill also, set apart for labor; as, laboring days. 3. (a.) Suffering pain or grief. Greek 75. agonizomai -- to contend for a prize, struggle ... from agon Definition to contend for a prize, struggle NASB Word Usage competes in the games (1), fight (1), fighting (1), fought (1), laboring earnestly (1 ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/75.htm - 7k Strong's Hebrew 6001b. amel -- toiling... Word Origin from amal Definition toiling NASB Word Usage labored (2), laboring (1), labors (1), toils (1). 6001a, 6001b. amel. 6002 . Strong's Numbers. /hebrew/6001b.htm - 5k Library Laboring under Difficulties Rest, Rest English Baptist Missionary Society. Whether Exorcism Should Precede Baptism? A Farther Quotation from virgilius Maro Respecting Christ, with ... The Danger of Deviating from Divine Institutions. A Wise Minister Will be Successful. Acts xx. 32 Concerning the Special Offices of the Gods. John Chapter iv. 18-Jan Thesaurus Laboring (8 Occurrences)... n.) of Labor. 2. (a.) That labors; performing labor; esp., performing coarse, heavy work, not requiring skill also, set apart for labor; as, laboring days. ... /l/laboring.htm - 9k Laboreth (8 Occurrences) Laborious (12 Occurrences) Pain (172 Occurrences) Urges (1 Occurrence) Urgeth (2 Occurrences) Labors (27 Occurrences) Labouring (18 Occurrences) Weak (102 Occurrences) Force (250 Occurrences) Resources How is Jesus our Sabbath Rest? | GotQuestions.orgIs working on Sunday a sin? | GotQuestions.org What does it mean that Jesus is the Lord of the Sabbath? | GotQuestions.org Laboring: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Laboring (8 Occurrences)Acts 20:35 Colossians 4:12 1 Thessalonians 2:9 2 Thessalonians 3:8 Revelation 12:2 Proverbs 16:26 Ecclesiastes 4:8 Ecclesiastes 5:12 Subtopics Related Terms |
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