Dictionary of Bible Themes  »  5000 Humanity  »  5200 Human civilisation  »  5628 work  »  5636 work, and rest

In creation, God has established a pattern of work and rest that is to be a model for believers.

Work and rest built into creation

Exodus 20:11 See also Genesis 2:1-3; Psalm 104:19-23

The pattern of work and rest confirmed in the OT

By Sabbath observance

Exodus 20:10 pp Deuteronomy 5:14; Leviticus 23:3

By observing holy festivals

Exodus 12:16; Leviticus 16:29; Leviticus 23:6-8 pp Numbers 28:17-18; Leviticus 23:28-31 pp Numbers 29:7; Leviticus 23:35-36,39 pp Numbers 29:12; Esther 9:17-19

Work and rest in the ministry of Jesus Christ

Mark 6:30-32 See also John 4:6

Wisdom needed to balance work and rest

To avoid idleness

Proverbs 6:9-11; Proverbs 10:4-5; Proverbs 14:23; Proverbs 20:13; Proverbs 24:30-34

To avoid overwork

Exodus 18:13-24; Psalm 127:2; Luke 10:38-42

Work and rest are both potential means of glorifying God

1 Corinthians 10:31 See also Ecclesiastes 2:24; Colossians 3:17

Work and rest will be perfectly fulfilled in heaven

Revelation 14:13; Revelation 22:3

See also

2033  Christ, humanity
2339  Christ, example of
5057  rest, physical
5386  leisure
5447  poverty, causes
5533  sleep, physical
5582  tiredness
5922  prudence
7354  feasts and festivals
7428  Sabbath
8361  wisdom