A Higher Standard
I strongly believe that Christian men are called to a higher standard in the workplace. We are adopted sons of the great Creator God, and will one day share in His glory. “and if children, then heirs—heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ, provided we suffer with him in order that we may also be glorified with him.” (Romans 8:17) As sons of the most High God, we should seek to reflect His glory in our work- in our attitudes, in the way we think through problems, in the way we deal with our boss, customers, and co-workers, and in providing value and quality in our products and services. We need to seek to serve others as best as we can, while at the same time doing everything as unto God. “So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.” (1 Corinthians 10:31) Regardless if we run our own business, or are hired by someone else, we all have the same ultimate boss, and that’s God. And because of this, we need to start seeking excellence in our work.
Several months back I saw a video of some craftsmen in Europe, crafting axes, kitchen knives, and the like. It was truly inspirational:
Lighting a Fire
After watching the first video by this company I wanted to see them all. A fire of interest had been lit, and it wasn’t just about the axes, and knives. My interest spilled over into other crafts as well; iron-smithing, thatch-roofing, wood-work, brick-work, and so on. It was so refreshing to see men, hard at work, creating masterpieces, and in all kinds of environments. There is a real beauty, a deep and heartfelt awe that one gets when seeing someone in their element, completely focused on creating something of value. What on the outside may look like a dirty, physically demanding, and miserable job, is actually filled with beauty, rhythm, and life.
Creation & Life
In the same way that our Heavenly Father created the Universe, we too should aim to create life in our work. Whether that be by inspiring others by what we do, or helping them live better lives through our products and services. Doing our work with as little effort as possible, skimping on materials to improve our profit margins, and lacking any creativity when trying to solve problems are all ways in which we fail to glorify God in the work place. Christians have all too often adopted the low standards of the society. We settle for mediocrity. We settle for what what’s easiest, and what works out best for us. This should not be so.
No More Excuses
We have no excuse for doing standard or substandard work. Our work environment is not of primary importance. Likewise, the type of work that we are doing is secondary. Our ATTITUDE and FOCUS, on the other hand, are everything. We need diligence. You can be an inspiration and blessing to everyone around you if you seek to be excellent at what you do. Whether you are a farmer or a doctor, a teacher or a taxi-driver, businessman or fireman. Be a man of detail, and at the same time a man of action. Repent of laziness, and previous shoddy work. Vow to be the best at what you do.
Focus on What’s First
Focus on those areas of life where you are most responsible, first- In your relationship with your wife, in your relationship with your children, and in your day to day job. And work outward from there. Be faithful in the little things first. If you are faithful in little things, you will be faithful in large ones. But if you are dishonest in little things, you won’t be honest with greater responsibilities (Luke 16:10). “Seest thou a man diligent in his business? he shall stand before kings; he shall not stand before mean men.” (Proverbs 22:29) We are called to be children of God. We are men created in His likeness, fallen, yet redeemed by His Son. Let us seek to be excellent in our work, for the good of others, and the glory of our Creator. So help us God.
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