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When asked to write about how my faith had influenced my work life, my initial reaction was, "how did it not"?  My approach was not to try to bring God into the workplace, but rather to use my work to honor God and serve him.  Through 40 years of work, I found that I could magnify God in everything I did; as a printing office clerk, teacher, researcher or analyst. The workplace also extended beyond just my desk…it is everywhere I do things including my office, home and school.

Even in heaven, I expect to be working; albeit with a different atmosphere.  For me, work here on earth is just a preview of my eternal life in heaven. I expect that Jesus will give me tasks I can accomplish with joy and grace, working peacefully with others as we eternally praise God in all we do. 

Here are some approaches to consider for whatever workplace you find yourself in.

Enthusiasm: In whatever you do, be enthusiastic, and put your whole heart into the work.  Pursue your passion, for that is an effective tool reflecting Christ.  1 Cor. 10:31 tells us to “... do everything that way, heartily and freely to God's glory.”  

Relationships:  Hold out the love of Christ to all you encounter. Serve others as Jesus did.  Listen to the hardship and hurts others encounter, and show both your own care, and point toward the One who cares divinely. Be of service and take a genuine interest in the lives of others. 1 Peter 4:10 says, “As each one has received a special gift, employ it in serving one another as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.”

Joy:  Let your life reflect the joy of the Lord in your heart.  Don’t be a complainer but draw out the good in all people and situations.  Live out James 1:2-3, “Consider it a sheer gift, friends, when tests and challenges come at you from all sides.  You know that under pressure, your faith-life is forced into the open and shows its true colors.”

Trust:  In all things, remember that it is not you, but God who has control.  Be diligent in all that you do but remember that you are utterly dependent on God for everything as Proverbs 3:5-6 notes: “Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding.  In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.”

Integrity:  Our world often encourages people to “get away” with things.  Instead, let’s act in such a way that everyone can see that you are cognizant of the ultimate Judge, and that you rely on Him. Matthew 5: 16 says, “Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven.”

Money:  Work as a steward of God’s money and treat money as a reminder of our ultimate treasure.  Don’t be a slave to the dollar but use it as the tool it is to forward the kingdom of Christ.

Grace:  Just as you received undeserved grace and salvation, treat all others as what they really are: Human beings made in the image and likeness of God. Be a reflection of the love of God.  1 Pet. 3:5 says, “You must worship Christ as Lord of your life. And if someone asks about your Christian hope, always be ready to explain it.”

So as you go about your work, whether in an office, your home or somewhere else, remember the words of Proverbs 8:18-19 telling us what happens when we bring our work to God, “Riches and honor are with me, enduring wealth and righteousness. My fruit is better than gold, even fine gold, and my yield than choice silver.”

Now get to work and take God with you!