While the word vocation has become synonymous in the English language with describing our careers and paid employment, the concept of vocation encompasses a much broader scope. From a Latin word that means “to call,” vocation refers to the various stations in life to which God has called us. We have callings in multiple areas of life, including the workplace, the family, the church, and the state. The following resources, curated by the Ligonier editorial team, can help Christians better understand and faithfully fulfill their vocations to glorify God and love and serve their neighbors.
What Is Vocation? by Stephen J. Nichols
Work, as ordained by God, has meaning and purpose. Yet while some find no meaning or satisfaction in their work, others make too much of their work and allow it to consume them. This booklet offers a biblical framework for Christians to rightly understand work as God intended it to be.
God at Work: Your Christian Vocation in All of Life by Gene Edward Veith
This book unpacks the Christian’s calling in the world and how God works through human beings by giving them vocations. Veith explains the purpose of vocation and discusses how we can be faithful in our callings in the areas of work, family, citizenship, and the church, helping readers to see the meaning in their vocations and the transformative presence of God in their everyday lives.
Teach Them to Work: Building a Positive Work Ethic in Our Children by Mary Beeke
How can parents help their children to develop a good work ethic? This book seeks to bring clarity to roles in the home and a new harmony to the household. Part 1 consists of Bible-based principles that form the foundation for training children to work, while part 2 provides everyday tips and advice to approach the task with greater clarity and reachable goals.
Every Day Matters: A Biblical Approach to Productivity by Brandon D. Crowe
This book provides an accessible and biblical understanding of productivity filled with practical guidance and examples. Drawing from the Bible’s wisdom literature and the life of the Apostle Paul, topics covered include setting priorities and goals, achieving rhythms of work and rest, caring for family, maintaining spiritual disciplines, sustaining energy, and engaging wisely with social media and entertainment.
Discovering God’s Will by Sinclair B. Ferguson
How do we discover the will of God for our lives? Dr. Ferguson answers this question by showing how God’s will is shaped by His ultimate purposes for us, which are made known in His Word. This book draws out fundamental principles by which God guides us and applies them to practical situations that we face in life.
Ligonier Ministries