Continued from page 1
Q: Have you considered
eternal results of a healthy work attitude, even in face of strife and chaos?
God's Call For Workplace As a worker, or an employer, God has a lot to say to us regarding our virtue at work.
We are called to work with respect and honor to God and others: Genesis 2: 15; 3: 15; Proverbs 6:6-8; 10:4,5,26; 12:9; 13:4; 14:23; 18:9; 22:29; 31:11-31; Ecclesiastes 3:22; 5:12; Ephesians 4:28; 1 Timothy 5: 8!
We are called to work with integrity: Proverbs 10:2; 15:27; Jeremiah 22: 13; Ephesians 4:28!
We are warned about laziness: Exodus 20:9-11; 23:12; 34:21; Proverbs 16:27; 18:9; 19: 15; 22:13; 24:30-34; 1 Thessalonians 4: 11,12; 2 Thessalonians 3:7-15!
We are called to honor just remuneration: Proverbs 3:27,28; 27:18; Luke 10:7; 1 Timothy 5: 18; James 5:1-5!
Here are some thoughts for your consideration. Remember what God calls us to do:
·Our work is not to define us! Even though this may be first question we ask someone new to us, or is asked of us, our work is what we do, not who we are! Work is not our identity or our worth!
·Our worth as a Christian is who we are in Christ!
·Work, in society, is center stage for our social classification and search for identity, and can even be an addiction to fulfill our deeper needs!
·Our worth as a Christian is who we are in Christ!
·Ecclesiastes 2:4; 4:7-8 asks, What benefit do we gain? This passage gives us impression that our toil and work are merely temporary. We may find work necessary in order to live, but it is not permanent or eternal.
·It is not what we do that matters, but how we are!
·Colossians 3:22-25. Our work may not define us, but it will either mature or devalue us. How we respond and model character will be eternal value—our true selves. Work can even be a means through which to worship our Lord!
·People will see Christ through us in workplace--either as a God to come to, or, one from whom to be repelled. How do people at work see Christ through you?
The Dangers and Concerns In Workplace.
How do you handle Anger? Anger is one of biggest enemies for employee as well as employer! We are to be known by our love; yet, it is anger that most often communicates who we are. Thus, we must beware of its vicious and destructive ways!
·Our inner feelings of inadequacy can be fuel to negative reaction to anger from a boss or coworker. Thus, we have to see ourselves as God sees us, redeemed, and as His child. Then we can have a healthier self-image that gives us confidence but does not allow pride.
·Do not try to just ignore your anger. Walking away from, or stopping anger, will not solve problem, and often, even prolongs it. Put an end to anger by seeking to solve root of conflict. Let anger give you fuel to react quickly and confidently, but do not let it control you!
·Gossiping, name-calling, and/or trying to get even will only escalate problem and give others a very wrong impression of our Lord! Remember, our essential self worth is not our job; it is who we are in Him!
·Do not take anger personally! View your work as a service to Christ, not a personal, esteem-building venture!
·Do not be defensive. Rather, let integrity be your guide. Virtue will build actions, even if you are under attack by an angry employer or fellow-employee. Show Christ-like character, and, in long run, you will win out. If not, shake dust off your feet and move on, because in God's eyes, you are winner!
·If employer or fellow-employee is angry, do not let it influence you! Do not acknowledge anger, and refuse to accept tone, because that gives it more fuel and you will lose control.
·Separate emotion of anger from words and content of what a person is saying. Do not respond to their anger with your own! Let them vent, then get to root of problem. Listen, and ask, How do you want me to resolve this? Find a solution, especially if it is your fault. And, if that be case, take responsibility; do not blame others; deal and act!
·Restate content of their complaint in your own words without emotion. Use phrases such as, I didn't know you disagreed with that policy. Or, I'm glad to know how you feel. Let us find a solution about that.
·Let person know you are glad they came to you (even if they acted inappropriately, because, we all do so at some point). When you are positive and looking to help them, you will be able to defuse anger faster than anything else you could do. Also, be in prayer, asking God to give you strength and appropriate words. Remember, He is there too!
·Remember Christ-like attitude, and "Fruits of Spirit," as well as sensibleness, self-control, and cooperation. (Romans 12:1-2; 2 Peter 1:4) Seek to emulate His character and you will excel.
Q: Do a word study on excellence by looking it up in a concordance, and see what you find. Notice how these principles affected not only people in Bible, but also how they could affect you. Then take those precepts and attitudes and ask yourself, How can I apply them in my workplace?
We will continue with "How To Deal With Co-workers" in Part II
Richard J. Krejcir Into Thy Word © 2003 www.intothyword.org
Richard Joseph Krejcir is the Director of ‘Into Thy Word Ministries, 'a discipling ministry www.intothyword.org . He is the author of the book, Into Thy Word and is also a pastor, teacher, speaker and a graduate of Fuller Theological Seminary in Pasadena California. He has amounted over 20 years of pastoral ministry experience, mostly in youth ministry, including serving as a church growth consultant.
