“The Lord God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and take care of it.” – Genesis 2:15
Work is not a punishment; it is God’s original design. From the very beginning, humanity was created to be productive. You are never in God’s placement by accident—wherever you are, He has positioned you to work, to contribute, and to glorify Him.
Work is more than a means of survival; it is integral to life, purpose, and destiny.
Why Work Matters
1. Work liberates your potential.
Work is not just activity; it is the platform through which your gifts, skills, and abilities find expression. A job gives you wages, but meaningful work creates wealth—tangible and intangible.
2. Work provides purpose.
If you are not working, you are not fulfilling your calling. God designed you as a worker, not a mere observer of life. Wishing does not produce results; working does.
3. Work expands your resources.
Your work is the basket for your harvest. The willingness to engage your potential is the key to abundance.
4. Work quickens your faith.
“Faith without works is dead” (James 2:17). Your labor gives life to your faith. God respects the faith of a worker who acts, not just believes.
5. Work determines your association.
Diligent workers attract diligent company. As Proverbs 27:17 says, “Iron sharpens iron.” Lazy people are uncomfortable around hard workers.
6. Work blesses you and makes you a blessing.
The profits of work are not only personal; they overflow to others. Your diligence can feed, uplift, and inspire those around you.
What Is Work Ethics?
Work ethics is knowing and doing what is right at your workplace. It is the invisible force that drives visible excellence. It defines acceptable behavior, guides professional conduct, and promotes high standards.
Jesus illustrated this in the parable of the talents (Matthew 25:14–30). Productivity, not intentions, is what God rewards. Unproductivity is considered wickedness in His eyes.
Core Principles of Work Ethics
To mirror the core values of a university—or any noble institution—your work ethics must align with these timeless principles:
1. Stakeholder Mentality
Work as though everything depends on you. Adopt the attitude of “we are in this together.” Friday should not be your best day and Monday your worst; every day is an opportunity to add value.
2. Excellence as a Standard
Refuse mediocrity. Commit to continuous improvement as a lifestyle. Handle every task as though it were your personal idea.
3. Time Stewardship
Time is the currency of the earth. Manage it wisely—be true to work hours, avoid distractions, and maximize productivity.
4. Respect and Communication
Words can build or destroy. Speak rightly, respect authority and colleagues, and tame your tongue. Gossip, disrespect, or careless speech have no place in a person of integrity.
5. Financial and Resource Integrity
Manage money and institutional resources with honesty. Do not misuse power or privilege. Be faithful in little, for God is watching.
6. Confidentiality and Trust
Keep sensitive information safe. Do not be a tale-bearer or betray confidence. Trustworthiness is at the heart of good ethics.
7. Appearance and Presentation
Dress code matters. The way you dress is the way you will be addressed. Let your appearance reflect discipline and professionalism.
The Spiritual Root of Work Ethics
Real work ethics flows from the fear of the Lord. Colossians 3:23 reminds us:
“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.”
God is watching. God is recording. And God will reward.
Conclusion
Work is not just what you do—it is who you are in Christ. It is your opportunity to fulfill destiny, to advance humanity, and to glorify God. Excellence, integrity, and diligence must define your labor.
Let your work ethics mirror the core values of your institution and, above all, reflect your fear of the Lord.
Courtesy of Pst. Faith Abiola Oyedepo at Executive Advance 2025/2026
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