Developing Good Work Ethics
Chapter 8
Developing Good Work Ethic
Definition of Work
Work is both personal and social activity.
As a personal activity, it is aimed at developing a person
As a social activity its purpose is the preservation of society.
Work therefore has moral and legal implications.
Work is a legitimate use of our mental and bodily powers for economic gain or profit
1. Work is the “use” or application of our physical powers to accomplish certain tasks. It is the “use” because nobody can own another man’s body, nor can anyone sell his body or any part of it, for purposes of material advantage or gain.
2. Work is the purpose of obtaining economic gain for the power. It belongs to the essence of work that it can be compensated.
The Meaning of Work in the Holy Bible From the biblical point of view, God is seen as the author of work and he also blessed and sanctioned work.
Old Testament
God did not just create man, He was also the author of work.
In Genesis chapter 1, He creates pattern for us to follow – He created the world for six days and rested on the seventh day. The reason for this respite is for man to appreciate the value and meaning of work.
New Testament
The meaning of work could be understood from the mystery of God’s reincarnation. When Christ became man, humanity was blessed and sanctified, including human work.
Seen from this perspective, work therefore is not a drudgery, not even a curse, but an activity that has been sanctified, then it must also sanctify the worker.
The Theological Meaning of Work According to St. Thomas Aquinas St. Thomas Aquinas enumerates four purposes of work in his treatise entitled “Summa Theologica”
1. It provides for one’s day livelihood.
2. It prevents idleness which is the source of many evils.
3. It curbs the rebellious flesh.
4. It enables man to give alms from his material surplus.
The Human Perspective of Work
How to Enjoy Work and Create Spiritual Values
1. Practice
Developing Good Work Ethic
Definition of Work
Work is both personal and social activity.
As a personal activity, it is aimed at developing a person
As a social activity its purpose is the preservation of society.
Work therefore has moral and legal implications.
Work is a legitimate use of our mental and bodily powers for economic gain or profit
1. Work is the “use” or application of our physical powers to accomplish certain tasks. It is the “use” because nobody can own another man’s body, nor can anyone sell his body or any part of it, for purposes of material advantage or gain.
2. Work is the purpose of obtaining economic gain for the power. It belongs to the essence of work that it can be compensated.
The Meaning of Work in the Holy Bible From the biblical point of view, God is seen as the author of work and he also blessed and sanctioned work.
Old Testament
God did not just create man, He was also the author of work.
In Genesis chapter 1, He creates pattern for us to follow – He created the world for six days and rested on the seventh day. The reason for this respite is for man to appreciate the value and meaning of work.
New Testament
The meaning of work could be understood from the mystery of God’s reincarnation. When Christ became man, humanity was blessed and sanctified, including human work.
Seen from this perspective, work therefore is not a drudgery, not even a curse, but an activity that has been sanctified, then it must also sanctify the worker.
The Theological Meaning of Work According to St. Thomas Aquinas St. Thomas Aquinas enumerates four purposes of work in his treatise entitled “Summa Theologica”
1. It provides for one’s day livelihood.
2. It prevents idleness which is the source of many evils.
3. It curbs the rebellious flesh.
4. It enables man to give alms from his material surplus.
The Human Perspective of Work
How to Enjoy Work and Create Spiritual Values
1. Practice