THE CHRISTIAN AT WORK

Every morning, millions of people leave their homes to go and make a living. The pressure of having to meet daily needs makes it necessary to earn some income. When things get busy, however, it is tempting to forget that God has opened that door for employment or business for a reason. What are God's expectations of you in your workplace or business premises?

1. You are God's representative

Colossians 3:17 "And whatever you do or say, do it as  a representative of the Lord Jesus, giving  thanks through him to God the Father.? (NLT)

According to this verse from Colossians, God expects that in everything you do, God must be represented. Think about an ambassador, whose job is to represent the ruler of the country he is from and speak on his behalf.  This envoy does not put forth his own agenda, but that of the person he represents

Similarly, the Christian is God's ambassador in the marketplace. Your peers and colleagues will be looking at you to see how well you represent the Lord, especially in your attitude towards work. The challenge is to be an able and trustworthy ambassador for the Lord.

2. You are God's employee

Everyone who works has an employer, whether one is formally employed, or self-employed. There is, however, a greater master, God, the one who opens the door for income generation in the first place.

Colossians 3:23 "Work willingly at whatever you do, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people." (NLT)

When you work for the Lord, and not for men, you get more satisfaction from your task, knowing that you are pleasing Him. After all, the Lord is the one who graciously gives the opportunities to earn an income.

Deuteronomy 8:18a "But remember the LORD your God, for it is he who gives you the ability to produce wealth." (NIV)

3. You are God's example

Not many individuals out there know how to behave with integrity in the marketplace. Aren't you glad, however, that your Father guides you on how to handle yourself? Well, God does so with the aim of making you a shining light that will draw men to him.

Matthew 5:16 "In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father."(NLT)

Are there people around you who ask why you conduct your business in a certain way? Do your co-workers ask what drives you to excel in the workplace? Use that opportunity to tell them about Christ, the one who gives you the strength and wisdom to work well.

Being a Christian at work is not just about making money to meet your needs. There is a reason why God has placed you there. Be his representative, employee, and example, and make a difference in the lives of those who surround you in the daily hustle.

Did you miss last week's reflection?  Check it out here. http://alisonkiriinya.blogspot.co.ke/2017/02/what-makes-you-unique.html