Developing spiritual habits
iStock
As is typical in the new year, many of us are thinking about things we can change to make this year better than the last. Whether it's eating healthier, going to bed earlier, or hitting the gym… this is the time to commit to healthier habits. But for Christ-followers, it's also a time to consider what spiritual habits should be cultivated in our lives so that our faith can grow and make a powerful, eternal impact.
In Matthew 28:19, Jesus told His disciples to "go and make disciples of all nations," and this is what He asks His followers to do today as well.
But how do we carry out this great commission in our everyday lives? How do we make disciples of every coworker, customer, and vendor, especially when our jobs seem redundant, boring, stressful, or frustrating?
I believe that to carry out the great commission IN our workplace, we have to resolve to change WHO we work for. Colossians 3:23 says, "Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men."
When we realize that ultimately, it's not our bosses or their bosses or their bosses that we work for, but that we work for God, it changes everything. Our paradigm shifts to a new understanding because our ultimate employer, the one who arranges the very work that we do, is our Heavenly Father, and we would never deliver garbage work to God. So why do we do it for our earthly employers?
One of the notable markings of a true believer at work is the attitude and quality of excellence in completing their work. When you work with excellence and don't lord it over others, your work stands out and is noticed—not so that you can bring glory to yourself, but so that you can remind people that even in a rough work environment, you work for God and your work matters to Him!
Our excellence, no matter the situation, screams that our faith is genuine. So, the next time you feel like slacking off at work (not that you ever do), remember that your ultimate employer, boss, and provider is your Heavenly Father. Let excellence be the platform that launches an opportunity for a faith-filled conversation in 2022!
 | Jim Brangenberg is an established leader in the faith and work movement who has over 20 years of experience as an entrepreneur and business owner. In 2013, God called him and his wife, Martha, to begin the iWork4Him Talk Show, where they have had the privilege of challenging thousands across the globe with the simple message that your workplace is your mission field. In addition, he and Martha have co-authored a series of collaborative books, iWork4Him, sheWorks4Him, and iRetire4Him. Learn More » |
More on Vision & Culture
- Open borders or compassionate order? (by Bob Russell)
- They tried to quiet Charlie Kirk—but the gospel still speaks (by Bob Russell)
- What can Christian leaders learn from a 20-something YouTuber? Quite a lot… (by Zac McGowen)
- Steps to Launching Your Personal Workplace Ministry (by )
