Laborest is not a term directly found in the Bible; however, it can be understood as a concept related to labor, rest, and the biblical principles surrounding work and Sabbath. The Bible provides extensive teachings on the balance between labor and rest, emphasizing both the value of diligent work and the necessity of rest as ordained by God.

Biblical Context of Labor:

The concept of labor is introduced early in the Scriptures. In Genesis 2:15 , it is written, "The LORD God took the man and placed him in the Garden of Eden to work it and keep it." This passage highlights that work is part of God's original design for humanity, intended to be fulfilling and purposeful.

The Book of Proverbs frequently extols the virtues of hard work and diligence. Proverbs 14:23 states, "There is profit in all labor, but mere talk leads only to poverty." This underscores the biblical principle that labor is not only necessary for provision but also honorable and rewarding.

The New Testament continues this theme, with the Apostle Paul instructing believers in 2 Thessalonians 3:10 , "For even while we were with you, we gave you this command: If anyone is unwilling to work, he shall not eat." This reinforces the expectation that able individuals should engage in productive work.

Biblical Context of Rest:

The concept of rest is equally significant in the Bible, with the Sabbath being a central theme. In Exodus 20:8-10 , the commandment is given: "Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy. Six days you shall labor and do all your work, but the seventh day is a Sabbath to the LORD your God." This commandment establishes a rhythm of work and rest, reflecting God's own rest on the seventh day of creation (Genesis 2:2-3).

Jesus further clarifies the purpose of the Sabbath in Mark 2:27 , saying, "The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath." This indicates that rest is a gift from God, intended for human benefit and well-being.

Theological Implications:

The balance between labor and rest is a reflection of God's character and His intentions for human life. Labor is seen as a means of stewardship, where individuals use their God-given talents and resources to contribute to society and glorify God. Rest, on the other hand, is a time for renewal, reflection, and worship, acknowledging human limitations and dependence on God.

The biblical model encourages believers to find a harmonious balance, avoiding both idleness and overwork. This balance is essential for spiritual, physical, and emotional health, allowing individuals to serve God and others effectively.

Practical Application:

In practical terms, Christians are encouraged to approach their work with integrity and diligence, as instructed in Colossians 3:23 : "Whatever you do, work at it with your whole being, for the Lord and not for men." At the same time, they are to honor the principle of rest, setting aside regular time for worship, family, and personal renewal.

The concept of Laborest, though not explicitly named in Scripture, encapsulates the biblical teaching that both labor and rest are integral to a life that honors God and fulfills His purposes.

The Excellencies of the Saints' Rest.
... Christian, this is a rest after thy own heart; it contains all that thy heart can
wish; that which thou longest, prayest, laborest for, there thou shalt find ...
/.../baxter/the saints everlasting rest/chapter iii the excellencies of.htm

1 John v. 3-Jan
... ever. Thou laborest here on earth, but thou shalt come to the promised
enjoyment. Who can take from thee that which thou lovest? ...
/.../ten homilies on the epistle of john to the parthians/homily x 1 john v.htm

Matt. xviii. 7
... But if thou hast any brother after the flesh, if he should perpetrate ten thousand
evil deeds, thou laborest to conceal him, and accountest thyself also to ...
/.../chrysostom/homilies on the gospel of saint matthew/homily lix matt xviii 7.htm

Knox -- the First Temptation of Christ
... But that you may the better understand the meaning of Christ's answer, we will express
and repeat it over in more words. "Thou laborest, Satan," would Christ ...
/.../various/the worlds great sermons volume i/knox the first temptation.htm

Laborest (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Laborest (1 Occurrence). Ecclesiastes 9:9 Live
joyfully with the wife whom thou lovest all the days of ...
/l/laborest.htm - 6k

Laboreth (8 Occurrences)

/l/laboreth.htm - 8k

Laborers (19 Occurrences)

/l/laborers.htm - 11k

Labourest (1 Occurrence)
... of vanity, which he hath given thee under the sun, all thy days of vanity: for that
is thy portion in life, and in thy labor wherein thou laborest under the sun ...
/l/labourest.htm - 6k

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