Created to Work: Why God Designed Us for Productivity

In a world where many young people are stuck waiting for the “perfect job,” it’s easy to lose sight of what work really means. We often associate work with stress, hustle, or just a way to make money but what if work was actually part of your divine design?

Whether you’re jobless, doing a small hustle, or still figuring things out, it’s important to understand this truth: God created us to be productive. Work isn’t just about a paycheck. It’s about purpose.

Work Was God’s Idea from the Beginning

Before sin entered the world, before the hustle culture and toxic workplaces, there was work; and it was good.
Genesis 2:15 tells us:

“The Lord God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and take care of it.”

This shows us that work was part of the original plan. It wasn’t punishment it was partnership. God trusted man with responsibility, creativity, and purpose. From the very beginning, we were made to build, grow, and steward what’s been given to us.

Productivity Is Not About Having a “Big Job”

Too many young people in Kenya today sit at home, “waiting on God” or “waiting for connections.” But let’s be real, sometimes that waiting becomes an excuse. We romanticize jobs in big offices while ignoring the small opportunities in front of us.

You don’t need a corner office to be productive.

• A hawker who wakes up at 5am to sell eggs or mitumba is walking in purpose.
• A boda boda rider providing transport with integrity is fulfilling a mission.
• A young mother selling snacks in her estate is not lazy, she’s fruitful.

Faith without works is dead (James 2:17). Sitting and waiting, without action, leads to frustration. But stepping out in faith even in small things opens doors.

Work Is Worship

Colossians 3:23 says,

“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.”

That means whether you’re washing cars, creating content, babysitting, or running a kiosk, your work matters. When you show up with excellence and diligence, you’re not just earning—you’re honouring God.

God doesn’t expect everyone to be in white-collar jobs. He’s looking for faithfulness, not flashiness.
Even Jesus worked as a carpenter before beginning His ministry. Think about that.

The Danger of “Waiting for the Right Job”

Let’s be honest: how many opportunities have you rejected because you felt they were “beneath you”? Many young people turn down jobs because the pay is small, the title isn’t impressive, or it’s not in line with their degree. But here’s the hard truth:
If you’re too big to serve, you’re too small to lead.

Every great journey begins with a small step. Some of the most successful people in Kenya today started as messengers, cleaners, or customer care agents. They were faithful with little and were entrusted with more.

Embrace Where You Are

God doesn’t waste seasons. Even in the waiting, He’s preparing you. Even in the hustle, He’s training you.
Ask yourself:

• What can I do with what’s in my hands today?
• What can I learn where I am?
• How can I honour God through my current work?

Final Word

Work is not a curse. It’s a calling.
You were created to work, to build, to serve, and to grow. Don’t let a delay in your dream job stop you from being productive now. Start where you are. Do it with excellence. Trust that God sees and rewards your faithfulness.

Because in God’s kingdom, there’s dignity in every honest hustle.