Reflections on weaving faith into our working lives without forcing it.
For many of us, work fills the largest part of our waking hours. Finding a way to bring my faith into my working life, without forcing it on anyone or shutting it away in a separate box, has been one of the more meaningful challenges I have faced.
Work as Service
Whatever the profession, I have come to see work itself as a kind of service. Approaching the day's tasks with integrity, kindness and care for doing things well honours both the people around me and my faith. For me it has never been about preaching at work. It is about living my values through how I act.
Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men. — Colossians 3:23
Practical Ways to Integrate Faith
- Start your workday with a moment of quiet reflection or prayer.
- Treat every person you meet with dignity and respect.
- Be honest in your dealings, even when it is difficult.
- Take time to rest. The Sabbath principle applies to modern work too.
- When faced with hard decisions, pause and seek wisdom.
Faith at work, I have learned, is not about perfection. It is about intention. Choosing, each day, to bring my whole self, spiritual side included, to the work in front of me.