The Grateful Worker

Christian talk radio with Rob West

"Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men - You are serving the Lord Christ." That verse in Colossians 3 should remind us to be grateful everyday that we have a job and the ability to earn a living because both are blessings from God. Today on MoneyWise, we’ll talk about the power of living and working with a grateful heart. Surveys show that a majority of Americans are consistently unhappy with their jobs. So it’s not surprising that more workers are leaving their jobs than ever before. There’s nothing wrong with looking for the best possible employment opportunity. And there’s nothing wrong with wanting to earn more, as long as simply having more money isn’t the ultimate goal. MAINTAIN A GRATEFUL HEART However, along the way, it is vital to be grateful for the job you have. When we remember that God placed us in our current positions, it becomes easier to soften our attitudes about challenges in the workplace. The Bible clearly states that God ordained work, even before the Fall. In the very first chapter of Genesis, He commands Adam and Eve, "Be fruitful and increase in number; fill the earth and subdue it. Rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky and over every living creature that moves on the ground." And even after the Fall, God gives us instructions about work. In Exodus 20, God says, "Six days you shall labor and do all your work, but the seventh day is a sabbath to the Lord your God." When you feel yourself wanting to grumble about work, remember that God isn’t just some hard taskmaster ordering us to work. Rather, He’s also our great Provider. God provided your job. So we never want to be ungrateful for what the Lord has provided. And being grateful on the job provides an excellent opportunity to point others toward Christ. The peace and gratitude others see in you will serve as a powerful witness. HOW CAN YOU SHIFT YOUR THINKING IF YOU’RE NOT HAPPY IN YOUR JOB? First, it’s helpful to stop and think about what exactly you do on your job. Look for the meaning in it, even if you think it’s mundane. All honest work is honorable in God’s eyes. Regardless of what you do, you’re helping to solve someone else’s problem and making their life better. So take some satisfaction in that! Next, manage your expectations. Business, by nature, is competitive. Companies have to keep costs down so the final product or service is marketable. Don’t expect your company to provide a Cadillac health plan, free daycare and ping pong in the break room. If you don’t expect too much, you won’t be disappointed. Also, instead of complaining, look at every problem as an opportunity to improve things. Trying to come up with a solution gives you a chance to learn something and possibly become a more productive worker. Suggest alternative ways to do things. Management might not act on your ideas, but at least the boss will know you’re trying to help. WHAT IF YOU STILL DON’T FEEL SATISFIED? What if you’re already doing those things and still don’t feel satisfied with your job? You are not Biblically bound to remain in the same job forever. It could well be that God is leading you to something else. Just remember that changing jobs or careers can be stressful. You’ll have a new boss, new co-workers and usually, new duties. The grass isn’t always greener on the other side of the fence. And if your thinking is negative, that negativity will follow you to your new position. So start by putting the principles above into practice. Then, with much thoughtful prayer and consideration, ask the Lord for guidance. It could well be that He has a brand new opportunity for you - a new place where you can be a grateful worker. LISTENER QUESTIONS On today’s program, Rob also answers listener questions: ●How should you go about consolidating 401k plans? ●Should you apply savings toward investing or toward paying down a property loan? ●How can you invest wisely if your spouse is opposed to investing in the stock market? RESOURCES MENTIONED DURING THIS PROGRAM ●Find a certified Kingdom Advisor at MoneyWise.org Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000 or email them [email protected] Also, visit our website at MoneyWise.org where you can connect with a MoneyWise Coach, join the MoneyWise Community, and even download the free MoneyWise app. Like and Follow us on Facebook at MoneyWise Media for videos and the very latest discussion! Remember that it’s your prayerful and financial support that keeps MoneyWise on the air. Help us continue this outreach by clicking the Donate tab on our website or in our app.