01/27/2025
By Pastor Vinnie Cappetta
"Business & Pleasure: Finding Joy in God’s Work"
Scripture Focus: John 4:27–34, Genesis 1:31–2:3
Have you ever heard the phrase, “Don’t mix business with pleasure”? It’s something we hear all the time—like a rule we’re just supposed to accept. Work is work, and joy is... somewhere else, right? Maybe on a beach, or during the weekend, or at the end of a long day. But here’s a question I’ve been wrestling with: Is that really what God wants for us? Are work and joy supposed to be two separate things?
Even the dictionary doesn’t seem to give us much hope. Merriam-Webster defines work as “strenuous activity that involves difficulty and effort and usually affords no pleasure.” Well, that’s inspiring. But here’s the thing—when we look at Scripture, God’s design for work paints a completely different picture. It’s not drudgery. It’s not punishment. In fact, it can be a place of joy, meaning, and even worship.
So, let’s unpack this together.
Jesus Found Joy in His Work
Let’s start with Jesus. In John 4, there’s this beautiful moment where He’s talking to the Samaritan woman at the well. The disciples come back from town with food and urge Him to eat, but His response throws them off. He says:
“I have food to eat that you know nothing about… My food is to do the will of Him who sent me and to finish His work” (John 4:32, 34).
Can you imagine the disciples standing there, holding bread, completely confused? For them, the highlight of the day was lunch. For Jesus, it was something so much greater—sharing God’s truth with someone who desperately needed it.
Here’s what’s so beautiful: Jesus didn’t see His work as a chore. He wasn’t dragging Himself through it. He found joy and satisfaction in doing what God had called Him to do. For Him, that work was as fulfilling as a good meal.
God Took Joy in His Work
Now let’s go back even further—to the very beginning. Genesis tells us that when God created the world, He paused after each day to reflect on what He’d done. And do you know what He said? “It is good.” Over and over again, God delighted in His work. And when He finished creating everything—when He looked at the oceans, the mountains, the animals, and even us—He said, “It is very good” (Genesis 1:31).
I love that picture. God didn’t rush through creation or treat it like a checklist. He took the time to appreciate it. Then, on the seventh day, He rested. Not because He was tired, but because He wanted to enjoy what He’d made and set an example for us.
If God Himself found joy in His work, shouldn’t we?
What About You?
So, let’s get personal. What about your work? Is it a source of joy for you, or does it feel like something you just have to get through?
Here are a few questions I want you to think about:
- Does your work bring you joy?
Not every moment has to be perfect, but are there parts of your work that feel meaningful or fulfilling? Can you see how your work—whether it’s leading a team, raising a child, fixing cars, or something else—reflects God’s love and purpose?
- Do you see God’s mission in your work?
Jesus said His “food” was to do the will of the Father. What would it look like for you to approach your work as part of God’s mission? Maybe it’s about how you treat people at work, or the attitude you bring to your tasks. Maybe it’s just showing up with love and excellence, knowing that your work matters to Him.
- Do you take time to reflect and rest?
When was the last time you paused to appreciate what you’ve accomplished? God set the example by resting after His work—not because He needed to, but to savor it. Are you giving yourself that same grace?
Redefining Work and Joy
Here’s the truth: God doesn’t see work and joy as two separate things. Whether you’re managing a business, teaching a class, or making dinner for your family, your work matters. And when you invite God into it—when you seek His purpose and reflect His love—your work becomes more than just a task. It becomes worship.
Maybe it’s as simple as changing the way you see your work. Instead of asking, “What do I have to get done today?” you could ask, “How can I glorify God in what I’m doing today?”
When we look at our work through God’s eyes, it changes everything. It doesn’t mean there won’t be hard days, but it does mean there can be joy—even in the ordinary.
A Final Thought
I’ll be honest—this isn’t always easy for me. There are days when work feels more like a burden than a blessing. But those are the moments when I try to stop and ask God for His perspective. What is He teaching me? How is He working through me, even in the small things?
And you know what? When I take a step back, I start to see glimpses of His hand in the middle of it all. It’s not about loving every task; it’s about trusting that every task matters to Him.
So this week, I want to challenge you to invite God into your work. Ask Him to show you how He’s using you, and let Him remind you that your work is part of His bigger story.
Let’s Pray
Lord, thank You for the work You’ve given me—even when it feels hard. Help me to see it the way You do—as an opportunity to reflect Your love and fulfill Your purpose. Teach me to find joy in the work of my hands and to approach each task with gratitude and trust. Help me to rest when I need it and to find meaning in what I do. May my work bring You glory. Amen.
What’s one thing you can do this week to bring God into your work? Maybe it’s starting the day with prayer, taking a moment to pause and reflect, or simply doing your tasks with a little extra care. Whatever it is, I’d love to hear how it goes.
