I work to give

Anyone who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with their own hands, that they may have something to share with those in need. Ephesians 4 v 28

In the context of putting off stealing and putting on work the Apostle gives the reason.

1. It is an assumption that if you can work you must work. There isn’t an option. If you must steal you must work. The greatest entrepreneurs are those who must work to survive. They grow fruit and vegetables, they make crafts and they do all manner of things around the world in order to provide for their families.
2. Do something useful. Value your work. No matter what your hands find to do today, this is not a secular job as in the sense that it is away from God’s divine opportunity or appointment. You are working for God. It is useful.
3. Earn not only that you can survive of course that is the result but earn so that you can share with those who are in need so that they don’t resort to stealing. Earn to help. Earn to provide not for yourself but anyone in need. This is the theology of work and giving coming together in this one sentence.