12 Bible Verses About Hard Work

Written by: Evelyn Johnson
Published on:

Are you looking for guidance on the importance of hard work and diligence? Look no further than the Bible.

This article explores twelve powerful Bible verses about hard work, emphasizing the benefits of hard work and the consequences of laziness.

It also encourages readers to work as if they are working for the Lord, reminding us that our hard work is ultimately serving a greater purpose.

Additionally, the article suggests four Bible chapters to read for practical advice and encouragement on achieving success through hard work.

Bible verses about hard work

Here are twelve powerful Bible verses about hard work:

1. Proverbs 10:4 – “He becometh poor that dealeth with a slack hand: but the hand of the diligent maketh rich.”
2. Proverbs 12:11 – “He that tilleth his land shall be satisfied with bread: but he that followeth vain persons is void of understanding.”
3. Colossians 3:23 – “And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men;”
4. Proverbs 14:23 – “In all labour there is profit: but the talk of the lips tendeth only to penury.”
5. Proverbs 13:4 – “The soul of the sluggard desireth, and hath nothing: but the soul of the diligent shall be made fat.”
6. Ecclesiastes 9:10 – “Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might; for there is no work, nor device, nor knowledge, nor wisdom, in the grave, whither thou goest.”

7. Proverbs 6:6-8 – “Go to the ant, thou sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise: Which having no guide, overseer, or ruler, Provideth her meat in the summer, and gathereth her food in the harvest.”
8. 2 Thessalonians 3:10 – “For even when we were with you, this we commanded you, that if any would not work, neither should he eat.”
9. Proverbs 21:5 – “The thoughts of the diligent tend only to plenteousness; but of every one that is hasty only to want.”
10. Proverbs 22:29 – “Seest thou a man diligent in his business? he shall stand before kings; he shall not stand before mean men.”
11. Proverbs 27:23-27 – “Be thou diligent to know the state of thy flocks, and look well to thy herds. For riches are not for ever: and doth the crown endure to every generation? The hay appeareth, and the tender grass sheweth itself, and herbs of the mountains are gathered. The lambs are for thy clothing, and the goats are the price of the field. And thou shalt have goats’ milk enough for thy food, for the food of thy household, and for the maintenance for thy maidens.”
12. 1 Corinthians 15:58 – “Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord.”

What does the Bible say about hard work?

The Bible emphasizes the importance of hard work and diligence.

It teaches that hard work is necessary for success and that laziness leads to poverty.

The Bible also encourages us to work as if we are working for the Lord, not just for earthly rewards.

It teaches that we should work with integrity, honesty, and excellence, and that we should use our talents and abilities to serve others.

Additionally, the Bible warns against overworking and neglecting rest, reminding us that God created a day of rest for us to recharge and renew our energy.

Overall, the Bible teaches that hard work is a virtue that should be pursued with humility, gratitude, and a desire to honor God.

What Bible chapters should you read if you want to learn more about hard work?

1. Proverbs 6:6-11 – This chapter talks about the ant, which is known for its hard work and diligence in storing food during the summer months. The chapter encourages readers to learn from the ant’s example and be diligent in their work.

2. Proverbs 10:4-5 – This chapter talks about the benefits of hard work and the consequences of laziness. It emphasizes that hard work leads to prosperity, while laziness leads to poverty.

3. Colossians 3:23-24 – This chapter talks about working for the Lord and not for human masters. It emphasizes that hard work is important because it is ultimately serving God and not just our earthly employers.

4. Ecclesiastes 9:10 – This chapter talks about the importance of working hard while we still have the opportunity to do so. It emphasizes that we should make the most of our time and use it wisely to achieve our goals.

These chapters are relevant to hard work because they provide practical advice and encouragement for those who want to work hard and achieve success. They emphasize the importance of diligence, perseverance, and a strong work ethic, and they remind us that our hard work is ultimately serving a greater purpose.

Ideas and concepts related to hard work that are also taught or mentioned in the Bible.

1. Diligence – Diligence is the act of working hard and being persistent in one’s efforts. In the Bible, diligence is often praised as a virtue and is seen as a necessary component of success. Diligence is related to hard work because it requires a sustained effort over time, which is necessary to achieve one’s goals.

2. Perseverance – Perseverance is the ability to persist in the face of obstacles and challenges. In the Bible, perseverance is often associated with faith and is seen as a necessary quality for those who seek to follow God. Perseverance is related to hard work because it requires a willingness to keep going even when the going gets tough.

3. Stewardship – Stewardship is the responsible management of resources. In the Bible, stewardship is often associated with the idea that everything we have is a gift from God and that we are responsible for using those gifts wisely. Stewardship is related to hard work because it requires a willingness to work hard to manage and use resources in a responsible way.

4. Discipline – Discipline is the ability to control one’s behavior and actions. In the Bible, discipline is often associated with the idea of self-control and is seen as a necessary quality for those who seek to follow God. Discipline is related to hard work because it requires a willingness to work hard to develop self-control and to resist the temptation to give up or give in.

5. Faithfulness – Faithfulness is the quality of being loyal and committed. In the Bible, faithfulness is often associated with the idea of being faithful to God and to one’s commitments. Faithfulness is related to hard work because it requires a willingness to work hard to fulfill one’s commitments and to remain loyal even in the face of challenges and difficulties.

Evelyn Johnson - Bible Verses
Written by Evelyn Johnson


Evelyn Johnson is a theologian, Bible expert, and the founder of EncouragingBibleVerses.org, a trusted resource for uplifting and empowering Bible verses.

With a Master's degree in Divinity, Evelyn is dedicated to studying and interpreting the Bible. Her website features curated collections of verses on various topics, along with insightful commentary and practical tips for everyday life.

Evelyn is also a sought-after speaker and author on matters of faith and spirituality. In her free time, she enjoys hiking and volunteering in her local church and community.

Learn more about her and read her other articles here.