Friday, September 2, 2011

September 2, 2011

"This is what I have observed to be good: that it is appropriate for a person to eat, to drink and to find satisfaction in their toilsome labor under the sun during the few days of life God has given them—for this is their lot. Moreover, when God gives someone wealth and possessions, and the ability to enjoy them, to accept their lot and be happy in their toil—this is a gift of God. They seldom reflect on the days of their life, because God keeps them occupied with gladness of heart."  Ecclesiastes 5:18-20

Yesterday, I began the challenge to "Take This Job And Love It!". Part one was "Love It As A Blessing".

Here is part two:

II. Love Your Job As A Bridge

One day an eager young man from Stanford University applied for a part time position at the school. The man who was doing the hiring said, “All I need now is a typist.” “I’ll take the job, said the applicant. “but I can’t start until next Tuesday.” On Tuesday he reported for work. The employer said, “Why couldn’t you come until today?” “Because I had to rent a typewriter and learn to use it!” Do you know who the student was?  Herbert Hoover!

The right job will be a bridge for you to accomplish many wonderful things. Here are just some of the more obvious ones.
A. It Is A Bridge For A Strong Reputation
“We know how telephone conversations are; we usually hear only one side of the conversation. A young boy was talking and his father was listening, "Hello, sir, I was calling you to see if you could use a lawn boy to do your yard work!" "Oh, I see you already have one!" "Well, is he doing your work to your satisfaction?" "He is! Thank you, sir, I was just checking," then the young boy hung up the phone. The father looked at his son and said, "Sorry son, you didn’t get the job!" "Oh, no sir," said the boy. "I’ve already got that job. I was just calling to check up on myself!"

A good reputation is essential for you as a Christian desiring to witness for your Lord at your workplace. If your work is not respected, you won't be respected and you will have a negative impact rather than a positive one.

B. It Is A Bridge to Showing Real Faith
“Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people” Galatians 6:10

Be “pre-prayered” – Pray for God to fill you so he can use you.
Be pleasant and positive - Be enjoyable to be around not a pain in the rear.

Be productive - Make money for your boss and lighten the load for your co-workers.

C. It Is A Bridge to Redemptive Relationships
“Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity. Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.” Colossians 4:5-6

”But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander.” 1 Peter 3:15-16

If you are called to be a witness for your Lord (and you are), and if work is where you spend 40 hours a week 50 weeks a year (and you do), then where is a better place to try and build bridges for sharing your faith!!!????

What kinds of bridges are you building to introduce the reality of Christ where you work?