Worship In The Workplace Starts With Grit, And Grit Is The Beginning Of Endurance, Discipline And Resilience.
Work was one of the first things God created after He created man. God not only places people in jobs but also equips people to work.
Work was one of the first things God created after He created man. God not only creates but also equips people to work. This work is manifested in the daily activities and tasks we perform at our various jobs (Genesis 1:26–2:25). If God opens a door — creating an opportunity for you — at your workplace, He expects you to perform at your place of employment with the same dedication as He expects you to fulfill your Christian responsibilities to Christ and the church.
We must consider our work in the bigger context of kingdom-building. Fulfilling our Christian responsibilities does not excuse us from slacking off at work. In the same way, neglecting our duties or taking our careers and jobs for granted is considered laziness, and laziness is a sin. It is not merely physical inactivity but spiritual lethargy — a condition that hinders our relationship with God and our purpose in His kingdom.
“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters,” — Colossians 3:23
In “… as working for the Lord, not for human masters,” Paul contrasts working for God with working for human beings. He shifts the focus from earthly motivations to a spiritual perspective, suggesting that one’s work should be performed as if for God. This implies a higher purpose and standard. The effort applied to one’s walk with God — through prayer, fasting, fellowship, and religious activities — should equally be applied to one’s work. It encourages believers to transcend mere human approval and strive for divine approval, which is more significant and enduring.
As the Holy Spirit says, “Laziness and greed grieve Me within you.” He is, after all, the Spirit of Excellence. Anyone who hopes to develop an excellent spirit in their life must be led by the Spirit of God. The Apostle Paul states in Galatians 5:25, “If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit,” and explains in Romans 8:14, “For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God”…How can you develop an excellent spirit if you take your career casually?
If these words are not compelling enough, consider the wisdom of Calvin Coolidge:
Nothing in the world can take the place of Persistence. Talent will not; nothing is more common than unsuccessful men with talent. Genius will not; unrewarded genius is almost a proverb. Education will not; the world is full of educated derelicts. Persistence and determination alone are omnipotent.
Do you see how Calvin Coolidge’s words echo the timeless Biblical truth that persistence and determination are indispensable virtues in achieving success, whether in entrepreneurship, career advancement, or spiritual growth?
“Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not put us to shame…” — Romans 5:3–6
As the Apostle Paul confirms in the verses above, enduring hardships and challenges cultivate perseverance, which in turn shapes our character ( spiritual and career maturity). This transformative process ultimately instills in us a sure hope — a confident expectation of God’s promises and an unwavering trust in His faithfulness. Therefore, let us wholeheartedly embrace the journey of perseverance, recognizing its profound impact not only on our professional pursuits but also on our spiritual journey, leading us to a deeper understanding of God’s purposes and His boundless love.
“…let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” — Matthew 5:16
Jesus desires us to be ‘present’ in the world — to thrive in the world — and not be of the world(John 17:16). We must acknowledge that we live in the world and are integral parts of its daily life, engaging in ordinary activities, relationships, and responsibilities. Therefore, we should not settle for merely surviving or existing. Our ‘modus operandi’ should be to prosper, succeed, and achieve well-being and growth in various aspects of life — personal, professional, relational, and spiritual — while fully engaging with the world.
This business of living half-heartedly in the world — waiting to die and go to heaven — is not Biblical! The Bible emphasizes living a purposeful and impactful life here on earth, serving God and others, while also looking forward to the eternal promises of heaven. It encourages active engagement with the world, making a positive difference, and spreading God’s love and message of salvation.
Finally, embrace your role and excel in it. Whether you’re a doctor, a businessman, a graphic designer, or any other professional, strive to be the best you can be in your field. Your dedication and excellence contribute to the betterment of society and honor God’s gifts and opportunities in your life.
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