God's command through the Apostle Paul emphasizes the importance of work to prevent idleness, which breeds sin and gossip. Hard work is presented as God's remedy for such disorderly behavior. From the very beginning in Genesis 1, God is portrayed as working, actively engaged in creation and not merely observing. This depiction underscores that God and Jesus Christ are always working, as Jesus states in John 5:17, involved in Their purpose and plan with continuous effort. Their example illustrates that work is integral to Their divine operation, setting a standard for humanity to follow. Historically, caring for the indigent was a family responsibility, with no governmental welfare system mandated by God. When family support was unavailable, needs were met through local community efforts or voluntary acts, as seen in the examples of Boaz allowing Ruth to glean and the Good Samaritan aiding the injured.

The Bible presents a strong stance on the importance of work and personal responsibility for one's sustenance. In II Thessalonians 3:6-15, it is commanded that brethren withdraw from those who walk disorderly and refuse to work, emphasizing that if anyone will not work, neither shall he eat. This teaching is reinforced by the example of Paul and his companions, who labored night and day to avoid being a burden to others, setting a model for the church to follow. The instruction is clear: Christians are to work quietly and eat their own bread, avoiding idleness which leads to becoming busybodies and a drag on others. This principle is not isolated but is echoed in I Thessalonians 4:11-12, where believers are urged to work, mind their own business, and live quietly to project a good witness to the world. However, some in the Thessalonian church, excited by the prospect of Christ's imminent return, stopped working and relied on others, prompting Paul to correct this misperception and urge a return to proper living with strong warnings of ostracism for non-compliance. The issue of idleness extended beyond one church, as itinerant preachers and travelers sometimes sponged off church members, expecting support without contributing. Early Christian guidance, as seen in historical documents, advised testing such individuals and ensuring they work for their bread if they settle among a community, warning against those who live off the church without effort. The concept of work as a godly principle is further illustrated in John 5:17, where Jesus states that His Father has been working until now, and He has been working as well. God is manifested to humanity as a Creator, One who actively builds and strives, providing an example of constant activity and effort. This underscores that laziness in providing for oneself can translate to spiritual laziness in pursuing eternal life, as Christianity demands intense exertion, both mental and physical, to support one's faith and salvation. Finally, I Timothy 5:8 warns that failing to provide for one's own household is a denial of faith, worse than unbelief, highlighting the deep spiritual significance of the work ethic in Christian life.