The Mission of Work
“Whatever you do, do your work heartily, as for the Lord and not for people.”
-Colossians 3:23
It’s easy to think of work as just a way to pay the bills or save up for a vacation. In our world, that’s often the case. But in God’s economy, work is so much more—it’s about impacting eternal souls, not just earning a paycheck. God calls us to be salt and light (Matt. 5:13-16). Our co-workers are watching, even if they don’t realize it. While you might not be able to preach the gospel at work, you can live it out through your work ethic, integrity, and character.
It’s tempting to join in when you overhear co-workers gossiping, or when people slack off by scrolling through social media on the clock. But as Christians, we are called to live differently—to be a shining example of honesty, diligence, and excellence. Colossians 3:23 reminds us, “Whatever you do, do your work heartily, as for the Lord and not for people.”
Remember, God has placed you in your current position for a purpose—to be a light for His kingdom. Ask yourself: Would Christ be honored by your work and your actions? We are His ambassadors, and He is with us in every meeting, email, and conversation.
When you’re tempted to check your social media or respond to a snarky email, pause and pray for strength. Ask God to help you reflect His glory by resisting those distractions and staying focused. Even if no one else seems to notice, technology makes it easier than ever for employers to track productivity. More importantly, God is always watching, and He’s the one we ultimately aim to please.
When that temptation to react in frustration strikes, remember Colossians 4:6: "Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you ought to answer each person." Our words can be a powerful witness to the love and wisdom of Christ.
Every day, God gives us countless opportunities to bring Him glory through our work. Make it your mission to shine for Him, and trust that you’ll see the fruit of your faithfulness and obedience. As 2 Chronicles 15:7 encourages, “But you, be strong and do not lose courage, for there is a reward for your work.” Keep shining for Christ—your labor is never in vain!
You’ve Got This!
-Meghan xoxo