Antidote to Workaholism

Unless the LORD builds a house,
     the work of the builders is wasted.
Unless the LORD protects a city,
     guarding it with sentries will do no good.

In 1971, theologian and psychologist Wayne E. Oates published a book called Confessions of a Workaholic. His use of the term “workaholic” went viral, as they say. Soon everybody was talking about whether or not they were workaholics, how much they overworked, and so on. American culture tends to hold up workaholics as role models of commitment and success, even as we worry about the implications of overwork for health and family.

Although Psalm 127 was written centuries before Confessions of a Workaholic, it speaks to this condition with incisive insight. “Unless the LORD builds a house, the work of the builders is wasted. Unless the LORD protects a city, guarding it with sentries will do no good” (127:1). All of our efforts to produce and to guard what we have produced will come to naught without God’s help. Thus, Psalm 127 continues, “It is useless for you to work so hard from early morning until late at night, anxiously working for food to eat; for God gives rest to his loved ones” (127:2). Long hours filled with anxiety might get the job done, but they will not produce a life of value and significance. God intends for us to work, yes, but also to rest.

Psalm 127 doesn’t suggest that it’s wrong to build a house or guard a city. The problem comes when we do it on our own strength, trusting in our efforts, working long hours, thus disregarding our health, our families, and, indeed, God’s gift of rest. Thus, the question for you and for me is this: What is God doing? How can I get involved in his project? How can I cooperate with God in the activities of my life?

When we invest our lives in what God is doing, our efforts are fruitful. Our lives are balanced. We have the joy of accomplishment as well as the benefits of peace of mind and rest. Today, I want to join the Lord in his work, offering my best to him, trusting him for the results. I want to take time for his good gifts, for family and friendship, for prayer and rest.

QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION: Do you tend to overwork? If so, why? If not, why not? How does Psalm 127:1 speak to you? What is the “house” you’re trying to build? What is the “house” God wants to build through your life?

PRAYER: Dear Lord, I confess that all too often I’m trying to “build a house” and “protect a city” through my own efforts. I sometimes think if I can work “from early morning until late at night” and pull it off on my own. Forgive me for such arrogance.

I acknowledge, gracious God, that I will not be able to build anything of lasting value in my life apart from you and your strength. You are the master builder. You are the source of all good things, the giver of all good gifts.

So help me, Lord, to do my work as your junior partner. May I look to see what you’re doing and join in this effort. May I trust you to work through me by the power of your Spirit.

And when it’s time to stop, Lord, may I trust you enough to stop, knowing that you want to give me rest.

In the name of Jesus, Amen.

Mark D. Roberts, as Senior Director and Scholar-in-Residence for Laity Lodge, is an advisor and frequent contributor to TheHighCalling.org. A Presbyterian pastor, Mark earned his Ph.D. in New Testament from Harvard University. He has written six books, including No Holds Barred: Wrestling with God in Prayer (WaterBrook, 2005). He blogs daily at blog.beliefnet.com/markdroberts.

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