On-the-Job Christianity

The workplace vividly displays the true nature of our Christian experience.

By Ed Habre

As I put the well-worn record on the turntable for my four-year-old, a familiar sound filled the house. His eyes lit up when the tune began. “Just whistle while you work . . .” And moments later: “Hi ho, hi ho! It’s off to work we go!” His childish mind equates this happy tune with Daddy’s going off to work each day. Surely, a whistle and a song must be the real-life experience of his father every workday of the year!

Joel hadn’t learned yet what it means to face the challenge of another day at work. No matter how we earn a living or what job we hold, most of us are familiar with this oft-repeated routine. Statistics tell us that the workplace is second only to the home as the most occupied place in the life of the average adult. For us as Christians, no other arena so vividly displays the true nature of our experience with the Lord. It is where people observe us at our best and at our worst.

What are we conveying?

Without question, our actions affect the attitude of those who observe us on a regular basis. The old adage says, “Actions speak louder than words,” and the workplace is the public address system of life. What are we conveying to those with whom we work? Do our actions and attitudes give a positive message to our fellow workers? Mark it down: The reputation of the Gospel is determined by the credibility of those who claim to be followers of Christ.

Let’s pinpoint some specific areas where our Christian witness is on the line. Because skill levels vary, we can’t all be the team’s most valuable player. However, one thing we can and must be is punctual. It’s not really so much to ask. After all, it’s within our power to plan morning activities (beginning with setting our alarm the night before) in such a way that we arrive to work on time. Want to really make an impression? Try arriving a little early! Begin the work day calm, cool, and collected, prepared to give your best effort and put in a full day’s work. By the way, most employers define the duration of breaks and lunches. First to go and last to come back makes for a poor testimony.

As unto Him

Still with me? Great! Next, let’s talk about the employer/employee relationship. It’s really not all that complicated. You work. He pays you to work. Your duty as a Christian employee is to give your best effort all day, every day. Making every effort to be productive says a lot about your character. Take seriously the words Paul penned in Ephesians 6:5 when he encouraged us to be “obedient ... in singleness of your heart, as unto Christ.” If you need motivation to do your best for your employer, just remember that you are a servant of God. What He has given you to do, you should do as unto Him.

Inherent in the nature of every born-again believer is an attribute that is blatantly missing from the work force in general—the virtue of being trustworthy. Honesty is as rare as a precious gem. Lack of it is justified by the notion that at some point the employee gave more than he was compensated for. Therefore, it’s all right to do this or take that. But for Christians, that won’t do. Make sure the boss can trust you to be honorable, dependable, and responsible.

The boss’ perspective

Now try approaching the employment scene from a different standpoint. It’s not easy to be the boss! Often you feel that your employees think any course of action would be better than the one you’re currently charting. If you are not in the spot of having to make critical decisions, you should show the same attitude as Jonathan’s armorbearer. His encouraging words are found in 1 Samuel 14:7: “Do all that is in thine heart ... behold, I am with thee . . .” As he followed Jonathan into battle he was supportive. Yes, supportive! Your testimony will carry impact if you exhibit the same attitude toward your employer.

On the line!

Tomorrow, when the alarm goes off and you get up to face another day on the job, remember that your Christian credibility is on the line. And an even more compelling thought—those you work with may judge the Gospel and make their decision about whether to be a Christian based on your on-the-job performance.

How serious are you about living that life-changing experience you claim to possess? The work place is a good place to prove it!

Ed Habre is a minister in the Apostolic Faith Church in Portland, Oregon.