Both Manual and Mental Labor Are Good
by David Chadwick
God created a world where Adam and Eve lived in a perfect paradise called Eden. Not until after creation’s completion did God rest.
Then God gave to Adam and Eve the gift of work. It was a good gift – one without blemish. They enjoyed their daily work regimen.
What kind of work did they do? God divided their work into two areas.
First, they were called to dress, till, and keep the land (Genesis 2:15). It’s a work Adam and Eve shared together. They exercised caring dominion over God’s creation, making sure it continued to blossom into exquisite splendor and beauty.
Also, Adam was instructed to name the animals (Genesis 2:20). Whatever he chose to name them, that would be their name forever. Surely he thought long and hard about their names! Rhinoceros, hippopotamus, elephant, aardvark, etc. – all were given their names by Adam.
What’s my point?
God gave Adam and Eve two kinds of work: manual and mental. And both must be very good in his eyes or he wouldn’t have given them these responsibilities.
Therefore, today as you work, believe both kinds of labor are very good in God’s eyes. If you work with your hands – as a plumber, gardener, electrician, or home-builder – see your labor as very good in God’s eyes. If you work with your mind – as a CPA, writer, auditor, or planner – see your labor as very good in God’s eyes.
When you do, work becomes something you can enjoy – whether it’s manual or mental labor.
That’s because both are considered very good in God’s creative mind.
Have a happy workday!
Transform your perspective on work!
Don’t miss your chance to get David Chadwick’s inspiring series On the Job as our thank-you for your gift to share hope with more people!
Most of us go to work merely because we have to. But when you work as for the Lord, everything changes.
In this four-part audio series, you’ll discover:
- How your identity in Christ empowers you at work
- How you can turn work into a Christ-centered mission
- How you can practically practice your faith at work
- How you can find that ever-elusive work-life balance
For more from Moments of Hope, visit us at MomentsofHope.org.
