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God created the universe. Talk about hard work!

“By the seventh day God had finished the work he had been doing; so on the seventh day he rested from all his work.” — Genesis 2:2

God wants us to work hard, just like He did, for the good things we need and want. But the Bible says He also wants us to rest and play. Balancing time spent on work, rest and play each day will keep you happy and healthy.

Kids in the U.S. work hard in different ways. As a student, you work by paying attention in class and finishing assignments. You probably also have chores at home. How do you feel when your parents ask you to do homework or clean your room? Some people complain or feel mad. Since you know that working makes God happy, can you do your work with a joyful attitude?

But even though God wants us to work, we also need playtime! Jesus had serious work to do on Earth. He taught people about God and heaven and how to love one another.

But He also had fun. He often went to friends’ homes to eat and talk. How do you have fun with family and friends? Playing can be tiring too, which is why we need rest. Sleep restores our energy so we can both play and work. But sleep isn’t the only way to rest. Reading a book, saying prayers or coloring can also give us rest.

Devotions Read Icon

Luke 10:38-42

  • What does the story of Martha and Mary teach you about work?
  • Are there times when working isn’t the right thing to do?
  • Do you ever complain about work like Martha did?
Devotions Act Icon
  1. Make three lists — one list of ways you work, one of ways you play, and one of ways you rest. Do you have a good balance?
  2. If you don’t have balance, name some ways you could get it. For example, playing outside more often or spending more time on homework.
Devotional Pray Icon
  • Thank God for giving us the Bible as a guidebook for life.
  • Ask Him to give you wisdom to know when you need to work harder, when you need to rest, and when it’s time to play.
  • Pray that God will give you the patience to do your chores and homework without complaining.