The workplace
Go to the ant, you sluggard! Consider her ways and be wise, which, having no captain, overseer or ruler, provides her supplies in the summer, and gathers her food in the harvest” (Proverbs 6:6–8)
The workplace can be a challenging and competitive arena. Too often, honesty and hard work can lose out to the pursuit of a quick buck and me-first politicking. But there is another way. The idea that the Bible contains specific guidance for the modern work life is not as incongruous as it might seem. As Joseph and Daniel proved, we can stand for integrity and diligence in the workplace, which can serve as a witness to others.
- Have a strong work ethic. Give it your best shot. Instead of doing the minimum, put your all into your responsibilities. Those who work hard will prosper” (Proverbs 13:4). Be a self-starter. Take the initiative.
Be honest. Bending the rules doesn’t pay in the long run. “Honesty guides good people; dishonesty destroys treacherous people” (Proverbs 11:3).
- Don’t dwell on negatives. No job is perfect. “If there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things” (Philippians 4:8).
- Be patient. God blesses those who do things His way, but not always immediately and not only in dollars and cents. The Bible characters Joseph and Daniel both rose to top positions, but neither was an overnight success. It took years of faithful, patient work to show themselves trustworthy of greater responsibility. [1]
The workplace is in fact exactly where the great majority of us are supposed to carry out our Christian mission. – Gregory Pierce
[1] Activated Working with God
