subject: How to live out your Christian faith in business [print this page] How to live out your Christian faith in business
Your job is a blessing from God, so be grateful for it. If you claim to be a Christian but are always complaining, what does that say to your co-workers? Everyone has tough days, and it's okay to admit it when you're struggling, but keep your overall attitude positive.
Then, follow these steps:
# Get clear on your core beliefs. One of the most fundamental beliefs of the Christian faith is that each ordinary believer represents the faith as much as a pastor does. That doesn't mean you have to preach, but do your job with integrity, so that your actions represent Christian values of telling the truth, not lying, not cheating and so on.
# Treat others with respect. The highest value of the Christian faith is love. Treat everyone, from the janitor to the top executive, with respect. In his book The Little Red Book of Wisdom, Mark DeMoss offers this advice: "In going about the work God gives us, we must treat every person well, regardless of station or potential benefit to us. Let us stay keenly aware of the endless ripple of just being ourselves." (p. 75)
# Remember the big picture: while it may seem like those who cheat or lie get ahead, in the long run, that often catches up with them. And ultimately, everyone answers to God about the choices they make in this life.
# Serve, modestly: Jesus came to serve, and his followers imitate him. Serving others without bragging about it is a sign a great strength. DeMoss writes: "Great leaders are first of all great servants--and great service is modest, understated, in speech and action. Understatement is self-restraint, and self-restrain is hardly a sign of weakness. On the contrary, wisely used, few things carry more power." (p. 29)
# Pray. It's not easy to live with integrity and to do your job with a good attitude. But God gives wisdom to those who ask, and will help you to live your faith, if you pray and ask him!
# Read. DeMoss recommends reading one chapter from the Biblical book of Proverbs each day, as a way of gaining wisdom. Read your bible or other Christian books to strengthen your faith.
