Ephesians 4:25-28
Verse 27 Anyone who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with their own hands, that they may have something to share with those in need.
We mentioned the other day that there are ways at the workplace that we aren't completely honest but there is another way we can live more intentionally about our job.
The way we do our work is a representation of our spiritual walk. We aren't living as precious children if our work style is not reflecting the God of heaven. It doesn’t matter as much what you do for a living (keeping in mind that there are some jobs that go blatantly against God and His teaching) but how you work at living. A janitor living for the glory of God will always scrub the toilet as if it is God’s throne.
God has gifted us each with talents and abilities that we can use to make a living but if all they mean to us is financial stability we are missing out on the blessing of work that God has created us for. Too often we think of ministry as something that a pastor does but God has given each of us a calling that He designed just for us. Whether we are called to be a teacher, hairdresser, farmer, accountant or many other occupations that are available, we have the responsibility to use them to bring glory to God.
Just imagine if every Christian became known as the best worker their boss has ever had. By putting in full effort all the time, in every situation, people of God could be making an impact on the workforce. An employer who knows they can trust their Christian employee would have less stress about making sure the job is being done properly. And once they realize that this is the way a Christian works they would be more willing to hire more Christians. The employer benefits as does the Christian population.
If you have ever worked in a place where Christian values abound, you will also know the joy of being with fellow believers as you do your work. The atmosphere is a blessing as you can know that you aren’t the only one carrying the weight and there can be fellowship as the job is done and during any breaks. It also allows for living Christ in front of fellow employees that are not believers so they can see what Jesus meant when He said that the world would know His disciples by their love for one another (John 13:35).
Making It Personal
How do you think God would rate your work ethic? What do you need to step up about your job? Do those at your workplace know that you are a Christian?
Making It Personal Kids
Do you have chores around your house that you could do to please Jesus? Have you ever done your chores as if you were doing them for Jesus? In what ways can you do a better job to show your family that you love Jesus?
Closing Prayer
Father, thank You for giving us work to do to bring You glory. Help us see our occupations as ways that we can reveal You and Your values to the world around us. May our work show the joy of serving You. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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