As dockworkers from Maine to Texas begin walking picket lines over wages and automation, America faces another pivotal moment in its labor history. These strikes raise important questions not only about economic policy but about biblical justice, the role of work, and the future of our society.

First, let’s acknowledge that work is a deeply biblical principle. The Apostle Paul, in 2 Thessalonians 3:10, writes: “if any would not work, neither should he eat.” Work is part of God’s design for humanity. From Adam’s tending of the Garden of Eden to the labor of our modern-day workers, diligent effort is a virtue. But work must also be compensated fairly, and therein lies the current dilemma. Dockworkers earn a base salary of around $81,000 a year, with some reaching up to $200,000 with overtime. While that’s significantly higher than the average American worker, they argue that their wages need to catch up with inflation and stagnant growth over the years.

Is their claim justified? Perhaps. Inflation has certainly eroded purchasing power for many, and it’s true that wages have not kept pace with productivity in many industries since the 1970s. But it’s essential to remember that these dockworkers already earn far more than most American families—more than double the average household income. Do they really need more? Or is this strike part of a broader trend of unions flexing their muscles in a time when they see political and economic conditions aligning in their favor?

Unions, once a means of protecting workers from unsafe conditions and exploitation, have evolved in many cases into powerful entities that can disrupt entire sectors of the economy. This level of power in a single group should give us pause. Just as we’re wary of large corporations or government entities having too much control, we should question the monopoly that unions like the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) hold over critical infrastructure. There is wisdom in Proverbs 11:1, which says: “A false balance is abomination to the Lord: but a just weight is his delight.” In this case, the scales seem tipped too heavily in favor of the unions, to the detriment of the broader society.

Automation is another critical issue. The ILA’s central demand is a total ban on automation of cranes, gates, and container handling. While unions may argue that this is about protecting jobs, from a broader perspective, resisting technological progress can stifle economic growth. The power of free markets, innovation, and entrepreneurship are what drive prosperity. Automation isn’t an evil; it’s an opportunity for economic growth and efficiency, potentially lowering costs for businesses and consumers. Just as Henry Ford revolutionized manufacturing with the assembly line, advancements in technology can free workers from dangerous, back-breaking tasks, allowing them to focus on more skilled, meaningful work.

Yet, the unions resist. Why? Because it threatens their power. But Scripture reminds us not to fear change when it serves the common good. Ecclesiastes 3:1 says, “To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven.” We must adapt to the times while ensuring that workers are treated with fairness and dignity. Automation can and should proceed, but with careful consideration of its impact on jobs, and with measures in place to help workers transition to new roles where possible.

The broader economic implications of this strike are significant. Prolonged disruption at our ports could reignite inflation and cause shortages, affecting ordinary Americans—especially those already struggling to make ends meet.

Moreover, there’s a moral responsibility at play. During the pandemic, these dockworkers did, indeed, risk their health to keep goods flowing. But in the aftermath, we must ask whether holding the economy hostage for a 77% pay raise over six years is truly just. Are the dockworkers seeking fair recompense, or are they using their strategic position in the supply chain to gain an unfair advantage at a time when Americans are already suffering under inflation?

While the Bible calls us to support the dignity of work and fair wages, it also cautions against greed and abuse of power. The dockworkers’ strike is a complex issue, but it seems to reflect more of the latter than the former. The Bible teaches that we should pursue justice and fairness for all, not just for those in positions of leverage. While there’s room for discussion on wage increases in light of inflation, resisting automation and holding the economy hostage doesn’t align with the principles of stewardship, fairness, and innovation that drive our nation forward.

As we watch this strike unfold, we must pray for wisdom, for a resolution that honors both the workers’ rights and the needs of the nation. After all, Proverbs 16:11 reminds us, “A just weight and balance are the Lord’s: all the weights of the bag are his work.” Let us seek a balance that benefits not just the dockworkers, but all Americans.