Being Grateful for Your Work

Whether or not you LOVE what you do for work or wake up struggling to make it to your workplace, it is helpful to remember that we aren’t just working for ourselves, but for God. Indeed, we are working for the Lord first and foremost, especially as believers. Are you thankful for your job?

Everything we do as followers of Christ is in His name. This is true of work because work is something God ordained for us in the very beginning. It is vital that we keep a grateful attitude when it comes to the work God has given Him to do.

The Lord God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and take care of it.

Genesis 2:15 (NIV)

Whether you are working for money, studying for school, or maintaining a household, our attitude and approach speaks to what we believe to be true about God. Work is as much a form of worship as singing a hymn, leading a group prayer, or giving an offering. Be grateful for the opportunity to use your skills, talents, and gifts to do something that God has prepared in advance for you to do for His glory.

In Colossians, the Apostle reminds us that whatever we do, we do in the name of Jesus. We need to keep in mind that our work is a blessing that the Lord provided and therefore be sure to offer Him our gratitude.

And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.

Colossians 3:17 (NIV)

But what if I hate my job?

While sometimes we find ourselves in the wrong seat riding the wrong bus, keeping a grateful perspective helps us endure those difficult times when our work isn’t all we thought it would be when we took the job. Remember your first day? You were excited as all get out to be going to work. Now, things have soured and you can’t hit snooze often enough when the morning alarm goes off. It’s okay. It’s not the end of the world. However, there is a way to leave your job that honors God and a way that not only damages your witness, but also reflects poorly on the Lord you profess to believe in.

Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus.

1 Thessalonians 5:18 (NLT)

I never met a problem that not having a job could solve. I have been blessed to work with a ton of excellent people in some wonderful organizations. However, not every job I’ve had turned out to be great. And, truthfully, there were times that I probably wasn’t the best employee, co-worker, or boss. Along my journey, the Lord has shown me the importance of remaining grateful in all circumstances, even if at times it’s in hindsight.

I am grateful for the opportunities that I’ve had. Each step along the way has been a learning opportunity and a chance to grow and get better. Today, I’m blessed to help lead a group of people who are passionate about Jesus and who are willing to go to great lengths to love their neighbor well.

Thankfully,

The Devotional Guy™

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