From the beginning, work was part of God’s plan. Adam was blessed to work in the garden and name the animals. Together, Adam and Eve were assigned the task of raising the first family and governing the earth and its animals.

We all have work to do. In good times, we experience steady progress. Other times, we may feel like a hamster on an exercise wheel, exhausted, yet seemingly making no gains. Still some seasons resemble a roller coaster ride with sluggish climbs, plummeting descents, and sharp, unexpected turns—all to find ourselves back where we started!

Whatever work the Lord has given us to do, there is a purpose. There is something to accomplish and there will be blessings. We can find encouragement in Old and New Testament verses that still speak to us today.

“My dear, dear friends, stand your ground. And don’t hold back. Throw yourselves into the work of the Master, confident that nothing you do for him is a waste of time or effort” (1 Corinthians 15:58 MSG).

“But as for you, be strong and do not give up, for your work will be rewarded” (2 Chronicles 15:7 NIV). Try inserting your name in this verse after the word “you.”

King Solomon—Israel’s wisest king—wrote, ^“Even so, I have noticed one thing, at least, that is good. It is good for people to eat, drink, and enjoy their work under the sun during the short life God has given them, and to accept their lot in life…. To enjoy your work and accept your lot in life—this is indeed a gift from God” (Ecclesiastes 5:18-19 NLT).

May we find delight and satisfaction in the work God has given us to do.