Then God blessed them, and God said to them, “Be fruitful and multiply; fill the earth and subdue it; have dominion over the fish of the sea, over the birds of the air, and over every living thing that moves on the earth.”
Jesus said to him, “‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.’ This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like it: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.
And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Amen.
Genesis 1:28, Matthew 22:37-39, Matthew 28:18-20 (NIV)
Discussion Questions:
- Reflecting on your current job, in what ways do you see your work as a sacred calling and not just a means to earn a living? How does the idea that all moral and ethical work has dignity and value to God change how you view your current role – whether in the office, at home, or in school? ( Genesis 1:27-28; 1 Corinthians 6:13-15,20; 1 Thessalonians 4:9-12)
- Read Colossians 3:23–24. What does it mean to you to ‘work for the Lord’? Share one way you can apply this mindset in your work this week.( Matthew 6:24; Genesis 11:4,8; Ephesians 2:8-10; Colossians 3:23–24 )
- What are some common distractions or temptations at work that may pull you away from living out your faith? How can we “stay on the wall” like Nehemiah and remain focused on God’s calling? In your current role or season of life, how can your work become an act of love for God and neighbor? Can you think of a concrete example or act of kindness you can do this week? (Matthew 22:37-39; Nehemiah 6:2-3)
Sermon Summary
This week’s sermon explores the sacred calling of work and its deep connection to God’s divine order. From the beginning, God ordained work as a means through which we reflect His character, bring order to creation, and serve others. Whether in law, business, education, or any other profession, no job is too small or insignificant in God’s eyes. Drawing from examples like the rebuilding of Jerusalem’s wall in the Book of Nehemiah, this message reminds us that our work is not only a task but a mission. Just as Nehemiah refused to be distracted from his calling, we too must remain focused and steadfast despite the many temptations and pressures around us—be it pride, materialism, or the lies of the enemy. have been saved by grace through faith not just for ourselves, but to do the good works God has prepared in advance for us. As a chosen people and royal priesthood, our lives—through our work—should declare the praises of Him who called us out of darkness into His wonderful light. This sermon will inspire you to see your work through the lens of God’s purpose and encourage you to remain faithful in your calling, so that one day you may hear Him say, “Well done, good and faithful servant.”