The way we work

God worked and is still working. We are created in His image, and so we work. Our work reflects God's nature, which is creative and redeeming. There is nothing on earth that is created to work like a human being; what a privilege. When He created humans, He placed them in a garden, not just to enjoy, but to cultivate and keep it (Genesis 2:15). Work is a blessing, not a curse; it serves as the primary source of meaning and purpose that makes life worth living.

What is work?

In everyday language, "work" generally refers to any mental or physical activity undertaken to achieve a specific purpose or result. This can be paid or unpaid and can be done for oneself or others. A workplace is a setting where human behavior is shaped, and character is forged through relationship dynamics and shared mission. Work encompasses everything from homemaking to business, politics, technology, church, and missions. It provides for the individual, family, and community as a whole. Therefore, it profoundly impacts the emotional, mental, and physical well-being. Hence, the benefit extends far beyond salary or status.

What is Christian work?

It is a popular notion that being in a Christian vocation is the highest calling. It is not correct; doing everything as unto God is the highest calling. Anything a Christ-centered person does is a Christian work. You may be a businessman, politician, janitor, homemaker, mechanic, pastor, farmer, or engaged in any work under the sun. When Christians engage in a job, they do so not only with competence but with dedication. Their efforts are marked by whole-hearted devotion as unto God. This sacred intentionality sets a Christian apart from others and reflects God’s nature.

Find your place

God did not mass-produce humanity. He made each person by infusing distinct gifts, temperaments, and callings. Each one of us must discover close alignment between who we are and what makes us valuable, fulfilled, and satisfied. If we are satisfied, we tend to be motivated, creative, collaborative, and contribute meaningfully. If not, we are more likely to disengage or quietly quit.  Which leads to stress, frustration and we often lose sight of God given uniqueness, focusing solely on material rewards. As a result, we chase after that which was never meant to define us: productivity, prestige, and possessions.

Emerging changes and challenges.

Industrialization, technology, globalization, and migration have presented significant opportunities, while also introducing a host of problems and challenges. In today’s cultural and economic climate, with the higher demand to produce, the workplace has become increasingly complex, evolving into an arena of relentless hustle, isolating routines, and devoid of purpose. Often, we don’t see anything beyond material benefits. This consumerist culture has subtly reshaped our attitude from one of generosity to one of self-interest. The question has shifted from “What can I give?” to “What can I gain?” Even our prayers are centered on income, promotion, favor, recognition, and so on.

If you find yourself in such circumstances, take time to pause, pray, evaluate, and do your due diligence. Discuss with significant people in your life. Sometimes, you may discover possibilities or opportunities in your current work that you haven't considered. Or you may begin exploring different opportunities. Sometimes, you may feel stuck and there is no way out.  If so, consider the life of Joseph.

Doing and being your best

Joseph was a young, rich, spoiled kid; he never would have imagined that he would become a slave. But he was sold as a slave, seduced, falsely accused, and put in prison for no fault of his own. It was not only a harsh working condition, but also a miserable life.  If you are in such a situation, learn from his life. First, he accepted his situation. Then, he labored on whatever work was assigned to him with commitment, humility, and a great attitude. He worked in such a hostile situation for more than 13 years, unsure of what was going to happen. Probably, he thought that he would end his life as a prisoner, but still, he gave his best.  

Job promotions, increased income, and social recognition- do these things honor God? No, not necessarily. They indeed honor the individuals who receive them, but they do not inherently honor God. If these achievements were a measure of divine favor, then all the successful and wealthiest people in the world must be Christians. However, that is not the case. Most of them are not Christians; does this suggest that God is dishonored? No. In the life of Joseph, it was not his rise to power that honored God. Instead, it was how he conducted himself, how hard he worked, and the attitude he maintained —whether as a slave, prisoner, or as the most powerful man in Egypt —that truly honored God.

Work that influences others

Career advancement is a worthwhile pursuit, yet without meaningful and depth of engagement, it is hollow, and those around us feel the absence. As we strive to be witnesses of Jesus Christ, we must realize that it is not what we receive, but what we give and how we give that matters. Our attitude, skillfulness, dignity, and devotion to each task, as well as the behavior we exhibit at work, honor God and positively influence all those who are around us.