Work Hard, Rest Well: Finding Joy in God’s Good Gifts

There’s nothing wrong with studying hard, chasing good grades, or excelling in your career. In fact, the Bible commends diligence and stewardship. Paul reminds believers in Colossians 3:23 that “whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.” Our efforts - whether academic, professional, or personal - can bring glory to God.

But if we’re honest, sometimes we confuse hard work with ultimate worth. We start to believe our identity is in grades, achievements, or productivity. In those moments, the textbook or MacBook in front of us can feel like the very measure of our value.

That’s why Solomon’s words in Ecclesiastes 2:24-26 are so refreshing:

“A person can do nothing better than to eat and drink and find satisfaction in their own toil. This too, I see, is from the hand of God, for without him, who can eat or find enjoyment? To the person who pleases him, God gives wisdom, knowledge and happiness…”

Here Solomon, after reflecting on the fleeting nature of human achievement, reminds us that joy is not found in work itself but in God’s good gifts through work. Hard work has value, but so does rest, laughter, and play. Both are gifts from God.

So sometimes the most spiritual thing you can do is not push through another late-night study session, but to close the laptop, step away, and go jump in the pool. Enjoy the sunshine. Laugh with friends. Taste the goodness of God in a meal, a hobby, or an afternoon nap. These aren’t distractions from the “real work” of life - they are part of God’s design for a life lived in balance.

Theologically, this is important: we don’t earn favor with God through overwork or achievements. Christ has already secured our worth. Because of that, we are freed to enjoy both diligence and delight. Work and play are not opposites - they are complementary gifts when received with gratitude and humility.

So, keep studying, keep pursuing excellence, keep working with all your heart. But also, don’t forget to dive headfirst into joy when God places it in front of you. The textbook will still be there when you return.

And in both - whether in work or play - you can glorify the God who gives wisdom, knowledge, and happiness to those who trust Him.