Earn the respect of your coworkers.
| posted 1/30/2009
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Hard work implies selflessness, dedication, problem-solving, and concern for coworkers. All these qualities demonstrate faith in God. Hard work invites respect, even from those who have no faith of their own. Sure you'll find coworkers who respect no one, no matter how hard they work. You'll also find coworkers who will try to dump their work on you because you work hard. But most recognize selfless work as a good quality.
Hard work—coupled with quiet living and a respect for others—is a way to demonstrate that each person belongs to a team. It invites cooperation and recognizes and appreciates the efforts of others. These qualities show you care less about who gets the credit than that the job is well done.
In all these ways, you can give testimony to your Lord. When people ask you why you're so diligent, you can explain you do it to honor God. You can invite them to become part of God's team where everyone has a place and a job to do. But even if no one ever speaks to you about your work, you'll still be giving a picture of God and what God designed work to be. (See also 2 Corinthians 4:1-15; 1 Timothy 5:17-6:2; 2 Timothy 1:6-14.)
Good Words to Remember:
Aspire to lead a quiet life, to mind your own business, and to work with your own hands, as we commanded you, that you may walk properly toward those who are outside, and that you may lack nothing. 1 Thessalonians 4:11, 12
Today's Challenge:
Does your life and work ethic earn the respect of your coworkers? Why, or why not?
Copyright 2001 by the author or Christianity Today International/Christian Bible Studies.
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