When I was 16 years old, I had my first job as an “orderly” at a hospital. I was entrusted with transporting patients to and from the radiology department. I’m not sure what the patients thought when they saw me coming with the wheelchair or stretcher, but thankfully, we all survived.
It’s not something we talk about a lot but it is something that is a part of our daily lives: WORK. And today is the day we actually “celebrate the contributions of the workforce” – Labor Day.
How we perceive our work varies from person to person. For some, it is all about the paycheck. For a fortunate few, their work is centered around their passion. They get to spend every day doing what they love and get paid for it.
Regardless of the why, one thing should be consistent for the working believer: “Work willingly at whatever you do, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people.” (Colossians 3:23 NLT)
As someone who has been in the workforce for more than 30 years (yikes, did I type that out loud?) and having worked as a supervisor for the past 7 years, I’ve realized there are several ways we can practically demonstrate “working for the Lord”:
1.Complete your assignment
We are at work to work, and we should do it well. As Christians, people should see us as the standard of a good employee. That means not slacking. It means getting our work done thoroughly and on time.
The story of Joseph in the Old Testament reflects this idea well. “So Potiphar left everything he had in Joseph’s care; with Joseph in charge, he did not concern himself with anything except the food he ate.” (Genesis 39:6 NIV) Could you insert your name where Joseph’s name is? Would your boss say that about you?
2.Constructive feedback
If your boss asks for feedback, give it to them. Oftentimes, employees won’t speak up when given the chance but then will complain about how things are done. Don’t be that girl/guy.
When given the opportunity, Joseph provided Pharoah with a plan (see Genesis 41). Because of it, many lives were saved. You have the same Spirit of God in you, giving you ideas and insights that others won’t have. You can be a blessing to your employer and to the people around you if you are willing to share what God put in you.
Let’s also clarify what constructive feedback is NOT:
- It is not a guarantee that you will get your way. Remember, your boss has to do what is best for the group, not just what is best for you.
- It is not a chance to criticize and complain. An article in Forbes magazine said it best, “Complaining is pointing the finger. Feedback is lending a hand.”
3.Considerate Communication
“Let your speech always be with grace, as though seasoned with salt, so that you will know how you should respond to each person.” (Colossians 4:6 NASB)
ALWAYS. No matter what your personality type, if you are an Enneagram 1 or an 8, an introvert or extrovert. No matter what is happening at home or how bad traffic was. We should always be respectful and kind to everyone we encounter at work.
Joseph’s transition from the prison to the palace hinged on one question to his fellow prisoners, “Why do you look so sad today?” (Genesis 40:7b) This question led to him interpreting their dreams and would eventually open the door for him to stand before Pharaoh.
Say good morning, please and thank you. Look people in the eye. Ask them how they are doing. Who knows? Maybe a promotion could happen for you too.
4.Count your blessings
Do you have a job? Do you have a good boss and team? Do you have good health so you can work? Do you have transportation to get to and from work or do you get to work from home in your pjs? Do you get a paycheck?
If you answered yes to at least one of the above, you are blessed. It may not always feel like it but our work is a blessing from God. Now, it is up to us to be a blessing to the people we work with.
In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven. (Matthew 5:16 ESV)
~ Anu
