Christianity in the Workplace

As a manager of a "specialty retail store" I am challenged constantly with maintaining my Christian composure in all kinds of social circumstances. I am often tempted to "lose my religion," as they say. So... my Bible study today is related to being a witness at work. How do I keep from embarrassing God while dealing with people that would try the patience of Mother Theresa?

Cato the Elder is credited with the famous quote, "Patience is the greatest of all virtues." Of course, the other famous thing he is known for is ending all of his speeches for the last few years of his life with the phrase, "Moreover, I advise that Carthage must be destroyed"--regardless of the topic upon which he had been speaking. He is actually credited with saying, "This corn is well grown and Carthage must be destroyed."

Back to the topic at hand--patience. The word "patience" makes several appearances throughout the Bible:

"...patience is better than pride." (Eccl 7:8)

"A man's wisdom gives him patience; it is to his glory to overlook an offense." (Prov 19:11)

"...we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces patience; patience, character; and character, hope." (Romans 5:3-4)

"Therefore, among God's churches we boast about your patience and faith in all the persecutions and trials you are enduring." (2 Thessalonians 1:4)

"Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces patience." (James 1:2-3)

"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control." (Galations 5:22)


The above list is just a sampling of the scriptures that include the word "patience." All of them point out the importance of patience in our Christian walk. Several of these scriptures mention the fact that patience is strengthened when it is tested. It's like building muscles. They atrophy when not used, but when given a consistent work-out they maximize their potential. Our patience is given a work-out when we are faced with things/people that cause us to suffer, or bring trials our way. When I am faced with trying people at work (customers or corporate support team members) I pray that I can recall that these tests are helping me build spiritual muscle. Larger muscles = larger reserves of power.

My study has also led me to recall the scripture, "...whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God." (1 Cor 10:31), which in turn led me to 1 Peter 4:11, "If anyone speaks, he should do it as one speaking the very words of God. If anyone serves, he should do it with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ."

Wow! What a challenge: Every word that comes out of my mouth should be as if it was the word of God. I am encouraged by this scripture to closely examine the words I am about to say. If they don't sound to me like something God would say, then they shouldn't be said. That means my words have to pass the tests of integrity, justice and love. I have to test the intent of my words. Am I building someone up with my words, or tearing them down? I pray that God helps me in this: God help me to carefully select the right words when speaking with my employees, employer and customers.

The second part of the challenge presented in 1 Peter 4:11 is to serve "with the strength God provides." This time it's my actions that are being held up to a high standard. Are my actions allowing others to see the strength of God in me and leading others to praise Him? Thank God that He provides the strength required to meet the demands of this challenge! God, my prayer is that You provide me with the strength to act in a way that others see You in me, working through me to your glory.

God, help me be a positive witness on your behalf in my workplace. Help me to exhibit patience, a controlled tongue and a work ethic that You would be proud of. Please give me the strength to be a great witness for you!