Letting Your Light Shine
on the Job

Our daily employment is an important part of our life. Not only does it take much time and energy, it also is a key point of contact with the world. We must make sure that we take Christ with us on the job as in every other part of our life. The life of Christ within must be evident to those we known and with whom we work.

Jesus speaks of our being "salt" and "light" to the world. Notice, for example, His instructions: "Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven" (Matt. 5:16). Paul writes, "Prove yourselves to be blameless and innocent, children of God above reproach in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you appear as lights in the world, holding fast the word of life" (Phil. 2:15-16a). Do our working associates recognize that we are "blameless and innocent" in the midst of a "crooked and perverse" world? Do we appear as lights in the world?

I have found it helpful to read over several simple "guidelines" on the job as reminders of how I am to relate to other workers. Then I try to consciously apply these guidelines to my life in a practical way. You may well add to this little list. As you go over the following points, look up the Scriptural references relating to them. Let this not be something external, but may it be something that is the natural outflow of a heart that is in love with God and others!

The Guidelines

(1) Smile and express joy (Prov. 15:13,15; Phil. 4:4; 1 Thess. 5:16).

(2) Be friendly, warm, and winsome (Phil. 4:5; 1 Tim. 3:7; Titus 3:2).

(3) Be helpful and go the second mile for the sake of others (Matt. 5:41; 1 Pet. 3:9).

(4) Be absolutely honest in all that is said and done (Eph. 4:25; Col. 3:9).

(5) Genuinely love and show an interest in people (Mark 12:31).

(6) Be kind, considerate, gentle, patient, and respectful (Col. 3:12; 1 Peter 2:17; 3:8).

(7) Speak to others and ask questions (Prov. 18:21; Col. 4:5-6).

(8) Remember names and use them (John 20:16; Luke 10:41; 22:31).

(9) Speak clearly, pleasantly, distinctly, and deliberately (James 1:19-20; Prov. 10:19; 17:27).

(10) Avoid crude, slang, meaningless talk (Eph. 4:29,31).

(11) Show respect and submission toward your supervisors (1 Peter 2:18; Titus 2:9-10).

(12) Show fairness and consideration toward those you supervise (Col. 4:1; Eph. 6:9).

(13) Use opportunities to greatest advantage (Col. 4:5-6; Eph. 5:15-16).

(14) Do nothing that would compromise the ways of Christ (Col. 3:17).

(15) Be willing to be considered different from others (2 Cor. 5:17).

(16) Dress modestly, discreetly, and neatly (1 Tim. 2:8-9).

(17) Brush teeth and bathe; avoid bad breath and body odor (2 Cor. 6:3).

(18) Often give recognition to God's will (James 4:15).

(19) Distribute literature as opportunities arise (Mark 16:15; Acts 5:42; 8:4).

(20) Speak of the Lord Jesus often (2 Cor. 2:14; Phil. 1:21).

(21) Meditate on Scripture as opportunity is given (Psalm 1:1-3; John 15:7).

(22) Maintain a God-consciousness and attitude of prayer (Eph. 6:18; 1 Thess. 5:16-18).

As we maintain this attitude of mind and take these active measures to express a love for people and a love and respect for God, we will find our daily work taking on more meaning. Our working in the field, buying merchandise, selling our products, laboring in the shop, and transaction business will be seen from a higher and more eternal perspective. We will use the opportunity to seek something higher than others in the workaday world. Paul writes, "Keep seeking the things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your mind on the things above, not on the things that are on earth" (Col. 3:1-2). Right on the job we can seek God, His kingdom, and His righteousness (Matt. 6:33).

When people think of you—even unsaved people—they should be able to testify to your love, patience, interest, responsibility, kindness, and focus on God. While they may not embrace our lifestyle or worship our Lord, at least they can be influenced by our presence in the workplace. And some may be led to a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ our Savior. Let us be wise stewards of our time and opportunity in our chosen occupation that God may be glorified!

Richard Hollerman