Disciplines of a Godly Man by R. Kent Hughes
Week 12: Chapter 11 — Discipline of Work
Read Chapter 11 of Disciplines of a Godly Man. Primary Scripture: Colossians 3:23–24; Genesis 2:15; Proverbs 6:6–11.
Previewing Week 12 of Disciplines of a Godly Man
Read 3 of 7 discussion questions below. Unlock the complete 20-week guide when you’re ready.
Hughes reclaims work as a sacred calling rather than a secular necessity — and argues that a godly man brings the same excellence, honesty, and diligence to his Monday as to his Sunday. Come ready to think carefully about the theology of your workplace.
Discussion Questions
7 questions1.Hughes grounds his discussion in the creation mandate — God placed Adam in the garden "to work it and keep it" (Genesis 2:15) *before* the Fall. What does it mean that work is a pre-Fall gift rather than a post-Fall curse? How should this change a Christian man's attitude toward his vocation?
2.Colossians 3:23–24 commands workers to do everything "as for the Lord, not for men." Hughes argues that this makes every job — no matter how routine or unglamorous — an act of worship. How does this reframe the way you think about your daily work?
3.Hughes addresses the twin failures of laziness and workaholism — both of which misunderstand the meaning of work. Which of these is the greater temptation for you right now, and what are the specific circumstances that pull you in that direction?