Our work takes on even greater meaning when we realize that we are not doing it merely for a salary or for our personal fulfillment, but that we’re working to honour the great God of the universe! As a result we can bring an attitude of enthusiasm into our workplace.
“A happy heart makes the face cheerful” (Proverbs 15:13). If we are truly working for God in our daily labour, what are some ways we can cultivate a healthy, positive attitude in our place of employment? 1) Be a “can-do” person. When faced with setbacks on the job, we should not give up but rather work at finding a way to successfully complete our tasks. Instead of saying: “No, this can’t be done”, we can say: “It looks tough, but let me see what I can do”. The effort and determination we demonstrate will pay off regardless of the success of a project. Such an attitude is valuable for both fellow employees and superiors who see and appreciate it. 2) Dont complain. Nothing positive comes from simply complaining about a matter. Instead, it’s better to discuss a particular problem with a superior if we feel it’s directly affecting our job function or performance. When we do, it leaves the door open for something to be done to correct a negative situation. 3) Work hard. The popular expression “Work smarter, not harder” is misinterpreted by some to mean that we can forego hard work. the real meaning is that our efforts should be put to the best use (read Ecclesiastes 10:10)) we still need to exert effort, always doing the best we can. As Scripture says: “Whatever your hand finds good to do, do it with your might” (Ecclesiastes 9:10). 4) Be organized. Being organized means we can be more efficient, which allows our superiors to consider giving us better assignments. This is because he or she knows we can complete a task efficiently and on time. But how can we work for God and be energetic if we have a superior who is difficult to work with or seems insensitive and uncaring? The Apostle Peter explains what to do: “Servants, be submissive to your masters, with all fear, not only to the good and gentle, but also to the harsh. For this is commendable, if because of conscience toward God one endures grief, suffering wrongfully” (1 Peter 2: 18-19) Of course, employees are not slaves, and no one should endure mistreatment endlessly. But it is good to remember that, even though we are working for God as our ultimate employer, there is no perfect human work environment. So when we face difficulties on the job, we should exercise the wisdom found in these words: “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made to God.” (Philippians 4:6). Indeed God wants us to recognize our need for His help and to ask Him for it. What if you are unemployed? If you happen to be unemployed, it’s no secret that finding employment in today’s difficult job market involves using creativity, ingenuity and regular steady effort. In other words, these are the very same qualities needed to perform soundly once you secure employment. You can use the same Biblical principles of diligence, initiative and tenacity BY MAKING A JOB OUT OF FINDING A JOB. Just as you would in any other occupation, you can spend 40 hours or more a week working at securing employment. Putting pressure on yourself to reach as many potential employers as possible each day will be motivating and encouraging in confronting feelings of inadequacy and rejection that sometimes goes with unemployment. I remember a long time ago when I wanted to leave school and earn money. As the youngest of three brothers, I was the last one remaining in school when my other two brothers were already working and earning money. To me, at the time it seemed that they were having the time of their lives. Each had a car and they were going and coming whenever they wanted. It looked like fun and I wanted in. What I did not see is the work they had to do to enjoy “the fun” they seemed to have. When I passed standard 8 (in the sixties that was high achievement) I nagged my parents to let me leave school and go to work. To my parents disappointment (much, much later in years, mine as well) I left school. I remember that day so well. I left school at the end of the year and I thought: “Finally, the “fun times” have come. The 2nd of January, my father kicked me out of bed at 5 am that morning and said: “Go find a job”. “Wow!” I thought, “That’s quick, I haven’t had ‘Fun’ yet”. But I was out that morning looking for a job. I was back at 10 am. I had found nothing and I reckoned I would try again tomorrow. WRONG! As soon as I got home, my father asked me what was I doing at home. I told him my little story thinking I had “really” looked for a job. “NO! NO!” my dad explained. “You need to spend as much time looking for a job than you would working in a real one.” And he kicked me out telling me I should come back at dinner time which was normally 6 pm. It went on for days when I finally found work here at the place I am sitting today and that was 41 years ago. During the years I have work “real hard” and I realized that the “fun times” did not come free; it was real hard work to have “fun”. What is the lesson here today? Don’t quick school too early you will regret it later in life. If you have supportive parents like I did, listen to your dad, he knows what awaits you. Learn as much as possible and if it’s too late for you, tell your children. Leave them in school. Encourage them to study hard and make the best use of their education. It will pay off because no one can take knowledge away from you. Comments are closed.
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Ana & Andre Schoonbee God uses us to motivate and encourage the body. Authors
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