She's just trying to 'earn a living'. [=to earn the money needed for food, clothing, etc.]
He will do anything to 'earn his keep'. [=to earn what is needed to support himself]
He 'earned/won his spurs' by doubling the company's profits in the past year.
(..) Uh, . You turning around on the redeye? Uh, I'm jumping puddles for the next few months trying to earn my keep running leapfrogs for the weak and weary. No shame in that. We all did it. Have a seat. (..)2002 Catch Me If You Can
(..) the most trusted name in the skies. They've accepted me into their training program and told me that if I work hard I should earn my wings real soon. Please get in touch with Joanna Carlton from the tenth grade. Tell her I'm sorry that I could not take her to the Junior Prom. (..)2002 Catch Me If You Can