Overcoming workaholism - All The Word for Today Daily Devotionals for 2026

Mark 6:31 NIV

One of Satan's tactics is to take us from one extreme to the other - from laziness to workaholism. Understanding the difference between being a hard worker versus a workaholic is key. Hard workers have the wisdom to set limits on how much they will do in the course of a day.

In her book 30 Days to a Stronger, More Confident You, Deborah Smith Pegues wrote: "I was in denial about my propensity toward workaholism until I realized that I had too many of the telltale symptoms: I worked late the majority of the time. Most of my conversations revolved around the issues at the office. I rarely took lunch breaks. I was always multitasking; I rarely performed any task single-mindedly. If I talked on the phone, I would also use the time to tidy the house. If I watched television, I also organized papers, and on and on it went.

When I tried relaxing, I would think of all the things I should be doing. My to-do list had more items on it than I could possibly achieve during a single day. I was a slave to my overcommitted calendar; I left little or no downtime. Everybody seemed to move too slowly. I was always rushing to the next appointment. I looked forward to the accolades I received for performing well. I found little time to nurture my friendships... Today, I try to engage only in those activities I feel are part of God's plan for my life."

What great advice! Jesus said to His hard-working disciples: "Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest." Is the Lord saying the same thing to you?

Soul food: Judg 16:1-19:15; Matt 13:1-9; Ps 45; Prov 13:13-16