Paul wrote to his friends in Philippi that he had learned the secret of being content in any and every situation. I believe that God has been teaching me that too, especially when it comes to my job. I found that complaining, thinking negative thoughts, and telling people everything I can’t stand about my boss was physically and emotionally wearing me out. That mentality kept me from communion with God. I don’t know if what I’ve learned will work for others, but it has revolutionized my contentment and fulfillment with everything work related.
One person I spoke with said she is most content when she can show others the beauty of God. For her it is a kind word of encouragement, or giving 15 minutes just to listen to an elderly person, or painting someone a picture, or singing them a song, or showing mercy to some who doesn’t deserve it. What brings you joy? And have you incorporated that into your work-life, or is it just an after work and weekend exercise?
Jesus led me into those questions and brought me to the realization that I can be doing any type of work regardless of how boring, exciting, or difficult it is - as long as I can be me. For me it is constantly listening and talking to God and being able to hear Him in all situations. I love hearing God outside the church! I love speaking his heart into a corporation! Those things bring me joy! As a recruiter, I don’t get out of bed every morning excited to give people who already have jobs a new job. I get excited because I see God at work. God talks to me and teaches there.
one story:
Just last month, he taught me about faith. In the beginning of August, during one of our weekly meetings at work, I heard the Lord say to me that in the month of September our operation would put 18 people to work. That is more that we have ever put to work since I’ve been there…by a lot. I then said this publicly to my boss and team. As September came, by September 19th we placed 4 people. I figured, oh well, I missed it. Then the next two days we put 7 more people to work! Hope flickered again in my heart, but I still seriously doubted. The next week, the last week of September, by Thursday we had put another 5 on assignment. That night I prayed out of my doubt that God would give us 2 fills (bringing us to 18) the next day (the last day of Sept.). He said, “Two companies will call you and give you two people. And stop doubting what I tell you. You do hear me.” The next day, one of the calls I answered was a client giving us a placement (17). No one else called. On Monday I spoke with my boss asking if anyone had called him over the weekend (he was out on Friday). He said no, but that he got a message on Friday from a client who wanted to hire one of our people. I just laughed.
These kinds of stories have happened frequently. I don’t think they are for any real significant reason other than God likes me and wants to be my friend.
…a little more still to come.
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2 comments:
Thanks, bro. That was fun and encouraging. The web needs more posts like this.
I am also going to spend some time thinking about what brings me joy in my everyday life and relationships. I like that question — in essence, what has God made you passionate about and how can you make that real in your everyday life?
I think mine lies along the lines of challenging people to look a little deeper. To learn something, stretch themselves and grow. I'll keep mulling it over and look for an example that I can in turn post to my own blog.
hey there brian...your post reminded me of what we talked about that one time...how much i need to remind myself of just that---being me at work, showing people the beauty of God through my gifts and personality, and ever listening and talking to Jesus---especially if work is challenging. so, i'm basically preaching to myself, but thanks for this encouraging post. today was the right day for me to read it=)
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