Why do we work?

Why do we work (or, if you are a student, study)? One could argue that work increases our likelihood of survival. Certainly if we ceased working, our lifestyles would diminish. But, in a modern society, would it threaten our survival? Maybe, or maybe not, depending on our individual circumstances.

My guess is that much of our day-to-day work/study is not geared directly toward survival, but rather toward increasing our wealth or prestige. This seems to be especially relevant in careers that involve building an impressive resume. Now that pursuit of professional success, in and of itself, is not a problem. After all, Solomon notes (Ecclesiastes 3:22, KJV),

I perceive that there is nothing better, than that a man should rejoice in his own works; for that is his portion.

But problems start when we let our work come before our relationship with God. We begin focusing on the temporal rather than the spiritual. Proverbs 23:4-5 (KJV) states,

Labour not to be rich: cease from thine own wisdom.
Wilt thou set thine eyes upon that which is not? for riches certainly make themselves wings; they fly away as an eagle toward heaven.

Wealth and resumes will vanish eventually and become meaningless. But this is a tough psychology to accept, because we spend so much of our day working, that it can become easy to let work define us! To maintain focus during the workday, recall the words of Paul (Colossians 3:23-24, KJV),

And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men; Knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ.