Created to Flourish: Work, Rest, and God's Purpose - Genesis 1:28
Genesis 1:28 (NLT) – “Then God blessed them and said, ‘Be fruitful and multiply. Fill the earth and govern it. Reign over the fish in the sea, the birds in the sky, and all the animals that scurry along the ground.’”
Introduction:
Today we’re going to explore a vital truth that transforms the way we live: God created us with a purpose. He has woven work, rest, and stewardship into the fabric of our being. Our jobs, homes, and even the small, seemingly insignificant tasks in life are part of God’s grand design. From the very beginning, He gave humanity a commission, and that calling echoes through history.
Genesis 1:28 tells us of this mandate: "Be fruitful and multiply. Fill the earth and govern it. Reign over the fish in the sea, the birds in the sky, and all the animals that scurry along the ground." Here, God blesses humanity and entrusts us with the responsibility to be stewards over creation. This call has not faded; it’s a divine reminder that our work matters.
In this sermon, we’ll look at God’s purpose for work, how it’s tied to creation, and how it reflects His nature. We will explore what it means to balance work and rest, and how we can glorify God in everything we do.
1. God's Purpose for Work: A Divine Calling
Let’s start with God’s command in Genesis 1:28 (NLT), “Be fruitful and multiply. Fill the earth and govern it. Reign over the fish in the sea, the birds in the sky, and all the animals that scurry along the ground.” The Hebrew word for "govern" is ????? (radah), meaning to rule or have dominion. But notice, this dominion is not harsh or exploitative. Rather, it is stewardship, where we manage God’s creation with care and wisdom.
This calling to steward the earth wasn’t just for Adam and Eve; it extends to all of us. We are invited to join God in the ongoing work of creation, contributing to its flourishing. Work, therefore, is not a curse but a part of God's original plan.
Even in the new heavens and new earth, God’s design for human flourishing through work continues. Isaiah 65:21-22 (NLT) gives us a glimpse of this: “In those days people will live in the houses they build and eat the fruit of their own vineyards. Unlike the past, invaders will not take their houses and confiscate their vineyards. For my people will live as long as trees, and my chosen ones will have time to enjoy their hard-won gains.” This passage speaks of a future where work is fruitful and satisfying, free from oppression and futility.
Whether you’re an office worker, stay-at-home parent, student, or retiree, your work matters to God. He has called you to be fruitful, multiply, and steward the resources around you. This is your divine calling.
As Pastor Tim Keller puts it, “Work is as much a basic human need as food, beauty, rest, friendship, prayer, and sexuality; it is not simply medicine but food for our soul.” We thrive when we fulfil this God-given purpose of contributing to His creation.
2. God’s Example: Work and Rest in Balance
John 5:17 (NLT) tells us, “But Jesus replied, ‘My Father is always working, and so am I.’” This reveals something profound: God works! The very act of creation is a testament to God's work, and Jesus continues to work in sustaining and redeeming the world. God’s work is constant, but it is not frantic. He also models rest. In Genesis, after six days of creation, God rested.
We read in Genesis 2:2 (NLT), “On the seventh day God had finished his work of creation, so he rested from all his work.” The Hebrew word for rest here is ?????? (shabbat), which means to cease or stop. God did not rest because He was tired—He rested to reflect on the goodness of His creation.
In Psalm 104:24-30 (NLT), we see that God’s works are manifold and full of wisdom. Creation itself reflects the glory of God’s work. The psalmist says: “O Lord, what a variety of things you have made! In wisdom you have made them all. The earth is full of your creatures.” This reveals that our work, like God's, should be both productive and good.
Even Jesus, during His time on earth, was known as a carpenter. Mark 6:3 (NLT) says, “Then they scoffed, ‘He’s just a carpenter, the son of Mary...’” Jesus took part in the work of daily life, modelling for us the dignity of honest labour.
We are called to work diligently but also to rest. Overwork can lead to burnout, while neglecting work can lead to a lack of purpose. We must follow God's example and balance both. Whether your work feels mundane or important, remember that it reflects the nature of God.
3. Co-Labouring with God in Creation
In Genesis, Adam is given a task. Genesis 2:15 (NLT) says, “The Lord God placed the man in the Garden of Eden to tend and watch over it.” The Hebrew word for “tend” is ????? (avad), meaning to work or serve. Humanity was created to work alongside God, not in opposition to Him.
God even invites Adam to name the animals in Genesis 2:20 (NLT): “He gave names to all the livestock, all the birds of the sky, and all the wild animals.” This act of naming signifies authority and participation in God's creative work.
This collaboration continues today. Even in the New Testament, we see that God equips people for their work. Exodus 31:1-5 (NLT) shows how God anointed Bezalel with the Holy Spirit to carry out craftsmanship for the tabernacle: “I have filled him with the Spirit of God, giving him great wisdom, ability, and expertise in all kinds of crafts.” God empowers us to do the work He’s called us to do, whether that’s art, building, teaching, or caring for others.
You are a co-labourer with God. In whatever field or role He has placed you, He will equip you. You are not alone in your work. Seek the Holy Spirit’s guidance in your everyday tasks.
4. Trusting God in the Provision for Work
As we work, we must also trust God for our provision. Matthew 6:11 (NLT) reminds us to pray, “Give us today the food we need.” This daily dependence on God teaches us that while we work hard, it is ultimately God who provides. We are not to be consumed with worry or self-sufficiency, but to rely on God's faithfulness.
Even in seasons of struggle or waiting, Jesus' words in John 5:7 (NLT) encourage us: “The man answered, ‘I can’t, sir, for I have no one to put me into the pool when the water bubbles up. Someone else always gets there ahead of me.’” This man had been waiting for healing for 38 years, yet when Jesus intervened, everything changed in an instant.
God’s provision may not always come in the way we expect, but it will come in His perfect timing.
In your work, do not be anxious about provision. Trust that God is your provider. Work diligently, pray for wisdom, and rely on God to meet your needs.
5. Working as for the Lord
Lastly, whatever we do, we are called to work as if for the Lord. Colossians 3:23-24 (NLT) reminds us, “Work willingly at whatever you do, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people. Remember that the Lord will give you an inheritance as your reward, and that the Master you are serving is Christ.”
This attitude changes everything. When we view our work as service to God, it elevates even the most ordinary tasks to acts of worship. The Greek word for "willingly" is ?? ????? (ek psuches), meaning “from the soul.” God is interested in the heart with which we work, not just the outcome.
In your job, your home, or your studies, work as if for the Lord. This means giving your best effort, staying honest, and seeking to glorify God in everything. Even when your work seems unnoticed, God sees it, and He will reward you.
As Rick Warren once said, “Work becomes worship when you dedicate it to God and perform it with an awareness of His presence.”
Conclusion: Created to Flourish in Work and Rest
Church, you were created to flourish in both work and rest. You were designed by God to steward creation, to co-labour with Him, and to glorify Him in everything you do. Whether you’re planting seeds in the garden, writing a report, or cooking a meal, your work has meaning and purpose in God’s kingdom.
Call to Action: Flourish in Your Calling
Today, I challenge you to ask yourself: How can I reflect God’s nature in my work? How can I rest in Him and trust Him for provision? Whether you’re employed, volunteering, or caring for your family, know that God has called you to this work. Seek His guidance, rely on His strength, and offer your work to Him as an act of worship.
Invitation to Faith in Jesus
If you have not yet experienced the joy of knowing Jesus as Lord and Saviour, today is the day to enter into that relationship. He has a purpose for your life that goes beyond work and rest. He offers forgiveness, peace, and eternal life.
If you're ready to accept that invitation, pray this with me: “Lord Jesus, I recognise my need for You. I believe You died for my sins and rose again. I invite You into my life as my Lord and Saviour. Help me to live according to Your purpose. Amen.”
