Work is a defining part of human life. It shapes who we are, occupies much of our time, and impacts the world around us. Yet, our understanding of work is often fraught with confusion. Is work just a means of survival, a source of identity, or something more? At the Work Matters Conference, Pastor Jason Dees explored this vital question, grounding his reflections in the story of creation. By looking at God’s design, we find that work is far more than a necessary task—it’s a calling that reflects His image and purposes.

Why Are We So Confused About Work?

In today’s world, confusion about work is widespread. On the one hand, work is often treated as a source of identity. People believe that their value lies in what they do—whether they’re a banker, teacher, or entrepreneur. Historically, this is reflected even in Western surnames like Smith, Baker, or Carpenter, tying identity directly to vocation. Modernity reinforced this idea with the notion of “survival of the fittest,” emphasizing human achievement and productivity as markers of worth.

But now, in an increasingly postmodern world, work has taken on a different meaning. Many find their identity not in their jobs but in leisure or self-expression. As Pastor Jason observed, people today are more likely to define themselves by hobbies, like being a rock climber or musician, rather than their actual profession. This shift reflects a deeper cultural confusion: we’ve lost sight of what work is for and how it connects to our purpose.

This lack of clarity stems from a broader societal drift away from God. Without an understanding of His design, work can become either an idol or an afterthought. As Christians, we have the opportunity to provide clarity by reconnecting work to its biblical foundation.

Why Do We Work?

To understand work’s true purpose, we need to go back to the beginning. In Genesis 1:27-28, God creates humanity in His image and commands them to “be fruitful and multiply, fill the earth and subdue it.” From the start, work is embedded in our identity as image-bearers of God. Far from being a curse, work is a reflection of God’s character.

As Pastor Jason put it, “When we work, we are like God who works.” The creation account opens with God Himself at work—shaping, ordering, and creating. This dignifies work, showing that it is part of His good design. Humanity’s role is to take the raw materials of creation and cultivate them, whether through gardening, building, teaching, or problem-solving. Work allows us to mirror God’s creativity and care for His world.

Work also serves as a means of provision. God cares for His creation through human labor. From planting gardens to designing bridges to developing life-saving medicines, our work contributes to human flourishing. Even in seemingly mundane tasks, like washing dishes or preparing meals, there is dignity and purpose. As Pastor Jason highlighted, “Through work, God shows care for His creation.”

Additionally, work is a command from God. In Exodus 20, the command to rest on the Sabbath begins with the instruction to labor for six days. This rhythm of work and rest reflects God’s own pattern in creation. It also reminds us that work is not just about personal fulfillment—it’s an act of obedience to our Creator.

Why Is Work So Hard?

If work is part of God’s good design, why does it often feel so difficult? Genesis 3 provides the answer. After Adam and Eve’s sin, God curses the ground, saying, “In pain you shall eat of it all the days of your life. Thorns and thistles it shall bring forth for you” (Genesis 3:17-18). Work, once a source of joy and partnership with God, is now marred by frustration and toil.

Pastor Jason identified three reasons for this curse:

• Retribution for Sin: The curse demonstrates that God is just. Sin has consequences, and the brokenness we experience in work is a reminder of humanity’s rebellion against Him. This should lead us to a healthy fear of the Lord and a recognition of our dependence on His mercy.
• Separation from God: The struggles we face in work—whether in the form of tedious tasks, strained relationships, or unfulfilled ambitions—reflect the deeper reality of separation from God. These frustrations remind us that the world is not as it should be.
• A Need for Grace: The difficulties of work point us to our need for God’s grace. They reveal our inability to find ultimate satisfaction or salvation through our own efforts and drive us to rely on Him.

Despite the curse, work still retains its dignity and purpose. It is through Christ that we find hope and renewal. As Pastor Jason explained, the resurrection of Jesus offers a picture of God’s plan to redeem all things—including work. Just as a seed is sown into the ground and produces new life, so too can our labors be transformed into something eternal when offered to God.