The role of women in the workplace is a topic that has evolved over time, and many look to the Bible for guidance. Scripture provides examples of women working in various capacities, offering principles that support the dignity and value of their contributions. Understanding these teachings can help us appreciate the diverse roles women play both in the home and in society.
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What Does The Bible Say About women working
Proverbs 31:16
“She considers a field and buys it; out of her earnings she plants a vineyard.”
This verse highlights the wisdom and industriousness of women in making financial decisions and investing in their work. It emphasizes the capability of women to thrive as businesswomen and contribute to the economy.
It also emphasizes that women have the ability to generate income and manage their resources wisely, showing that women are not limited to domestic responsibilities but can actively participate in the workforce and economic growth.
Genesis 29:9
“While he was still talking with them, Rachel came with her father’s sheep, for she was a shepherd.”
This verse highlights Rachel’s role as a shepherdess, which was traditionally a male-dominated occupation. It showcases that women have the capacity to work in physically demanding and traditionally male-dominated fields.
It challenges gender stereotypes and emphasizes that women have the inherent ability to excel in various work environments, including occupations that require strength, skill, and dedication.
Ruth 2:2
“And Ruth the Moabite said to Naomi, ‘Please let me go to the fields and glean heads of grain after him in whose sight I find favor.’ And she said to her, ‘Go, my daughter.”
This verse depicts Ruth’s proactive attitude towards work, expressing her determination to provide for herself and Naomi. It portrays women as self-sufficient individuals who actively seek opportunities for sustenance and economic stability.
It highlights the work ethic, resilience, and resourcefulness of women, encouraging them to be proactive in their careers and pursue opportunities for personal growth and success.
Proverbs 14:23
“All hard work brings a profit, but mere talk leads only to poverty.”
This verse emphasizes the importance of diligence and hard work as means to achieve success and financial prosperity. It encourages everyone, including women, to actively engage in their work and give their best effort.
It reminds women that their work has value and can lead to favorable outcomes, both financially and personally, while cautioning against idle talk that doesn’t produce tangible results.
1 Timothy 5:14
“So I would have younger widows marry, bear children, manage their households, and give the adversary no occasion for slander.”
This verse encourages young widows to remarry, bear children, and manage their households effectively. It acknowledges the significance of women’s roles within the family structure and their capability to oversee domestic affairs.
It affirms that women have valuable contributions to make in their homes and society and advises against giving room for criticism or negative judgment by fulfilling these responsibilities diligently.
Proverbs 31:24
“She makes linen garments and sells them; she delivers sashes to the merchant.”
This verse portrays the industriousness and entrepreneurial spirit of women. It describes a woman who not only crafts beautiful garments but also actively engages in the business aspect of selling her products to merchants.
It showcases the ability of women to create and market their products, demonstrating their aptitude for commerce and their potential for financial independence.
Acts 16:14
“One of those listening was a woman from the city of Thyatira named Lydia, a dealer in purple cloth. She was a worshiper of God. The Lord opened her heart to respond to Paul’s message.”
This verse introduces Lydia, a successful businesswoman who was engaged in the trade of purple cloth. It highlights that women played active roles in commerce during biblical times.
Additionally, it demonstrates that women in business can also be receptive to spiritual matters, exemplifying that one’s professional pursuits can coexist and integrate with one’s faith.
Proverbs 31:17
“She sets about her work vigorously; her arms are strong for her tasks.”
This verse emphasizes the strength and determination of women in their work. It recognizes that women possess physical and mental prowess to undertake various tasks with vigor and excellence.
It counters the notion that women are fragile or incapable and instead affirms their ability to fulfill their work responsibilities with strength and competence.
Luke 10:38-42
“As Jesus and his disciples were on their way, he came to a village where a woman named Martha opened her home to him. She had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet listening to what he said. But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made. She came to him and asked, ‘Lord, don’t you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me!’ ‘Martha, Martha,’ the Lord answered, ‘you are worried and upset about many things, but few things are needed—or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.’
This passage presents Martha and Mary, two sisters with different approaches to their work. Martha is depicted as occupied with the busyness of preparing for Jesus’ visit, while Mary prioritizes listening to Jesus’ teachings.
It highlights the importance of balancing work and spiritual nourishment, emphasizing that dedicating time to cultivate a relationship with God is equally vital as fulfilling work obligations.
Proverbs 31:15
“She gets up while it is still night; she provides food for her family and portions for her female servants.”
This verse demonstrates the commitment and responsibility of a woman in caring for her family and household. It acknowledges her role in sustenance and nurturing her loved ones.
It underscores the importance of women in managing the practical aspects of domestic life, ensuring the needs of the family are met and fostering an environment of care and provision.
Ephesians 6:7-8
“Serve wholeheartedly, as if you were serving the Lord, not people, because you know that the Lord will reward each one for whatever good they do, whether they are slave or free.”
This verse encourages women in their work, reminding them to serve wholeheartedly as if working for the Lord Himself. It emphasizes that their work has spiritual significance and will be rewarded by God.
Regardless of their social status or occupation, women are called to approach their work with dedication, integrity, and the awareness that their efforts hold eternal value.
Colossians 3:23-24
“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.”
This verse reminds women that their work should be done with utmost dedication, considering it as an act of service to the Lord. It emphasizes that ultimately, they are working for God’s approval and eternal rewards.
It calls for a perspective shift, highlighting the significance of work beyond earthly recognition and promoting excellence and commitment in all endeavors.
2 Thessalonians 3:10
“For even when we were with you, we would give you this command: If anyone is not willing to work, let him not eat.”
This verse emphasizes the importance of diligence and productivity, underscoring that idleness should be discouraged. It promotes a work ethic that ensures sustenance and responsible stewardship.
It serves as a reminder that work is a means of provision and blessing, urging individuals, including women, to actively engage in productive activities to support themselves and contribute to the well-being of others.
Ruth 2:11
“But Boaz answered her, ‘All that you have done for your mother-in-law since the death of your husband has been fully told to me, and how you left your father and mother and your native land and came to a people that you did not know before.”
This verse acknowledges the dedication and sacrifice of Ruth, who left her homeland to care for her mother-in-law. It demonstrates the value of loyalty and devotion in one’s work, regardless of the circumstances.
It encourages women to exhibit commitment and compassion in their professional endeavors, recognizing that such qualities can lead to recognition and reward.
John 4:35
“Don’t you have a saying, ‘It’s still four months until harvest’? I tell you, open your eyes and look at the fields! They are ripe for harvest.”
This verse serves as a call to action, inviting women to be aware of the opportunities and needs around them. It urges them to seize the appropriate timing to engage in fruitful work endeavors.
It encourages women to have a discerning eye for the ripe harvest, being mindful of the potential for success in their fields of expertise and ready to take action to reap the benefits.
Ecclesiastes 9:10
“Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might, for in the realm of the dead, where you are going, there is neither working nor planning nor knowledge nor wisdom.”
This verse emphasizes the importance of wholehearted commitment and effort in one’s work. It prompts women to approach their responsibilities with diligence, knowing that death ultimately puts an end to opportunities for work.
It serves as a reminder that the present life is a valuable time to dedicate oneself to productive endeavors, utilizing skills and talents to the fullest.
1 Timothy 6:17
“Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment.”
This verse cautions against placing excessive emphasis on wealth and material possessions. It reminds women that true fulfillment and security come from placing their trust in God rather than the uncertain nature of worldly riches.
It encourages a balanced perspective on work, recognizing the importance of enjoying the fruits of labor while maintaining a reliance on God as the ultimate provider of all good things.
1 Corinthians 10:31
“So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.”
This verse reminds women that their work and daily activities can be acts of worship when done with the intention of glorifying God. It emphasizes that every aspect of life, including work, can hold spiritual significance.
It encourages women to approach their work with excellence and integrity, knowing that their efforts have the potential to reflect God’s glory and impact the lives of others.
Proverbs 31:27
“She watches over the affairs of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness.”
This verse highlights the responsibility of women to oversee the management and well-being of their households. It recognizes the value of being proactive and productive, avoiding idleness.
It emphasizes the importance of being diligent in household matters and encourages women to actively engage in their responsibilities, ensuring the smooth operation and nurturing of their family members.
Proverbs 31:26
“She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue.”
This verse underlines the wisdom and discernment of women in their words and interactions. It implies that women have the potential to be influential and impactful in their work through thoughtful and wise communication.
It encourages women to seek knowledge and understanding, developing the ability to provide counsel and guidance to others in their professional and personal spheres.
1 Corinthians 14:40
“But everything should be done in a fitting and orderly way.”
This verse speaks to the importance of professionalism and organization in women’s work. It urges them to strive for effectiveness and efficiency in their tasks, ensuring that their work is carried out in an appropriate and well-structured manner.
It serves as a reminder that diligence and order in work can contribute to a positive and impactful experience for both the individual and those affected by their efforts.
Proverbs 31:28
“Her children arise and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her.”
This verse acknowledges the impact and value of a woman’s work within her family. It recognizes the appreciation and admiration she receives from her children and husband for her dedicated efforts.
It affirms that women’s work extends beyond professional settings, encompassing the nurturing and care they provide in their roles as mothers and wives, fostering loving and supportive environments.
Titus 2:3-5
“Likewise, teach the older women to be reverent in the way they live, not to be slanderers or addicted to much wine, but to teach what is good. Then they can urge the younger women to love their husbands and children, to be self-controlled and pure, to be busy at home, to be kind, and to be subject to their husbands, so that no one will malign the word of God.”
This passage encourages older women to mentor and guide younger women in various aspects of life, including their conduct within the household and family dynamics. It recognizes the wisdom and influence that older women possess.
It emphasizes the importance of nurturing relationships, self-discipline, kindness, and aligning personal behavior with biblical principles. It fosters an understanding of the intergenerational support and guidance that women can offer each other in their roles.