Work, divine and human

God has ordained that some of his purposes be fulfilled through the co-operation (conscious or unconscious) of human beings.

God works in co-operation with people's work

Human labour is futile apart from God

Psalm 127:1 See also Genesis 11:8; John 15:5

A song of ascents. Of Solomon. Unless the LORD builds the house, its builders labor in vain; unless the LORD protects the city, its watchmen stand guard in vain.

God often works through human means

Psalm 77:20 See also Acts 9:15; Romans 13:6; 2 Corinthians 7:6

You led Your people like a flock by the hand of Moses and Aaron.

God gives the gifts needed for work

Exodus 31:3, Exodus 31:6; Luke 12:48; 1 Peter 4:11

Human workers should acknowledge their dependence upon God

Deuteronomy 8:18 See also Psalm 90:17; Nehemiah 6:9, Nehemiah 6:16; 2 Corinthians 3:5

But remember that it is the LORD your God who gives you the power to gain wealth, in order to confirm His covenant that He swore to your fathers even to this day.

The apostles as God's fellow-workers

1 Corinthians 3:9; 2 Corinthians 6:1 See also Mark 16:20

For we are God’s fellow workers; you are God’s field, God’s building.

As God’s fellow workers, then, we urge you not to receive God’s grace in vain.

Examples of divine and human co-operation in work

Philippians 2:12–13

God creates and people cultivate

Genesis 2:15; Isaiah 28:23–29; 1 Corinthians 3:7

God gives and people are generous

1 Kings 17:9; 2 Corinthians 8:1–5

God speaks through prophets' words

Deuteronomy 18:15–18; 2 Samuel 12:25; Jeremiah 37:2; Hosea 12:13; Matthew 1:22; 2 Peter 1:21