The Value of Servanthood in the Workplace

The first chapter I read, How to be the Greatest in God's Kingdom/ Understanding the Value of Servanthood by Byron D. August, was about serving in the workplace. I thought it would discuss reaching lost coworkers, but it didn’t. It talked about how I should behave while at work! I was glad to know I’m a good worker and positive Christian role model.

One paragraph that I have meditated on for weeks since reading the book is when Mr. August says, “They should not have to look after the company when you are around. When you are on the job, the boss or owner should be able to sleep at night. They should know that you will do your job and take care of the company as well or better than they would. They should be able to leave at a moment’s notice without the company missing a beat. The company should stay on course of success with you at the helm.”

 

I also had to ponder what Mr. August said about people being more willing to give up their money than their time. I try to give both, but I give more of my time. It’s not because I don’t have money, but because I allow the Holy Spirit to minister to me on what a person needs.

 

The second thing I meditated on was the statement that many people serve in the ministry because they want to be seen by everyone. I thought about that because the Bible tells us to check ourselves against the scriptures.  I’ve always been meek and humble when it came to the things of God, and I know I’m more of a behind-the-scenes person, so I know that my motive for serving in the kingdom is not to win a popularity contest.

 

The last thing I want to discuss is Mr. August's statement that many people do not realize that those in ministry may also have another career. We assume pastors spend all their time studying the Word and praying in the spirit. We don’t stop to think that they may have two callings: one natural and one spiritual. And that maybe both are to be used for God’s purpose.

 

A librarian can be a Sunday school teacher for the kingdom by day, an author/journalist can be the church announcement writer by day, or a librarian can also be the church housekeeper, or an author/journalist can be a demon chaser by day.

 

I read that 5 percent of church members do 90 percent of the work. It shouldn’t be like this. When I decided to get involved in the church and stop being a bench warmer, I put my hands on whatever was needed. Why aren’t we, as Christians, willing to get more involved in the ministry? Why aren’t we willing to help hold up the pastor’s hands? One reason is that we don’t know how much help is needed.

 

In closing, I enjoyed the book, and Mr. August provided much insight into what I need to do to be a godly servant.

Navigating the Workplace: A Christian's Guide to Exercising Religious Freedom

Religious freedom for Christians has sparked nuanced and passionate debates in modern workplaces. As believers, navigating the fine line between faith expression and professional decorum can be as intricate as personal.

Whether it’s the decision to wear a cross or to graciously decline an invitation that conflicts with one’s Sabbath, these acts aren’t merely about personal choice; they speak volumes about inclusivity and diversity within corporate cultures. In a kaleidoscope of beliefs, our workplaces have the potential to be beacons of respect for the sanctity of personal faith, not as a mere coincidence of work-life balance, but as an integral part of one’s identity that enhances the richness of dialogue and understanding within the team.

This isn’t merely a quest for rights, though. It's about creating an atmosphere that recognizes and respects the spiritual, just as it does individuals' material and cognitive elements. By fostering such an environment, workplaces can harness Christ-centered virtues' profound impact on work dynamics, offering a touchstone for ethical engagement that is as timeless as it is timely in our professional pursuits.

For employers and colleagues alike, the challenge lies in upholding a culture that honors the beliefs of all while maintaining the drive for innovation and progress that unifies the workplace. Achieving this balance doesn't require a playbook but demands open minds, empathetic hearts, and a willingness to accommodate without compromise.

This would have been especially important during the pandemic when workplaces required the COVID-19 vaccine, and if you wanted to be exempt, you had to prove religious reasons. But I always wondered why they don't require proof to not work the Sabbath or other religious days.  

As we Christians continue to find our place in an ever-shifting work landscape, the call to constructively challenge and creatively contribute to the tapestry of the modern workplace remains unyielding, echoing the divine mandate to be salt and light.

The Art of Handling Offense in the Workplace

 

It's important to approach these situations with empathy and an open mind. It's important to remember that not all Christians are the same, and just because someone else who identifies as a Christian did something offensive, it doesn't mean that we hold the same beliefs or actions.

It's important to listen to their perspective and acknowledge their feelings while clarifying that we do not agree with or condone the offensive behavior. 

I wrote a similar story, Lunchtime Debate, for my Gospel Tracts With a Twist booklet. Click the button below to get your copy today!