The Bible speaks to overworkers, too. (5 Tools to guard us against the false promise of overworking)

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By: Johnny Presley

When we read Scripture, we find all kinds of wisdom from the Lord. The book of Proverbs especially instructs us on how to work. For example, we are often reminded not to be lazy or “slothful”, but God warns of the opposite danger as well. It commands us not to overwork ourselves and toil restlessly. At the core, both extremes display a lack of trust in God and expose a false security found in ourselves, our work, or lack thereof. But today I want to focus on overworking.

Overworking is one of the unhealthiest things you can do for your body. Here is what the National Library of Medicine has to say on the matter:

                “Overworking increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases and stroke, as well as affecting mental health. Physical and mental strain of the overworked people can start from acute physiological responses such as fatigue, stress, impaired sleep, and unhealthy lifestyle changes in response to the stress. In addition, overworking reduces work performance and results in productivity loss due to illness and occupational injuries” (https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8315652/).

There is no doubt that this is the very thing God’s word warns us about.

1. The reality of rest

    Scripture commands us to rest every week on the Sabbath. As Exodus 20:9-10 states, “Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy. Six days you shall labor, and do all your work, but the seventh day is a Sabbath to the Lord your God. On it you shall not do any work…” This humbles us and allows us to accept the reality that we are finite beings and that God supplies our strength.

    2. Diligence over hastiness

      The Bible encourages us to work diligently over long periods of time, instead of cramming as much work into a short amount of time as possible. Proverbs 21:5 states, “The plans of the diligent lead surely to abundance, but everyone who is hasty comes only to poverty”. This reflects God, who shows his steadfast faithfulness to us over generations.

      3. Our heart posture before God

      The Bible does not specify the number of hours we should work each week but rather instructs us to submit our work to God. Proverbs 16:3 states, “Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will be established”. This verse reminds us that working is not a number to achieve, but a heart posture that submits to God’s Word and will.

      4. Trusting in God over earthly riches

      Perhaps the greatest warning that Scripture gives us about overworking is if we are doing that primarily to earn money. Proverbs 23:4 states, “Do not toil to acquire wealth; be discerning enough to desist”. God continually reminds us that following him consists of heavenly riches over earthly ones. Jesus warns us against loving money more than God. He says, “Take care, and be on your guard against all covetousness, for one’s life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions” (Luke 12:15).

      5. Content with contentment

      A great tool to protect us from overworking is being content with what we have. Proverbs 15:16 explains, “Better is a little with the fear of the LORD than great treasure and trouble with it.” Gratitude towards God is powerful. A thankful, humble heart displays true trust in the Lord to provide our every need and reject the lies of the false promise of overworking.