Genesis 50:19-20 “’… Am I in the place of God? You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives.’”
In the case of Joseph, God used him to save the lives of his own family, the “chosen” nation of Israel and millions of people in the Middle East. In his high position, he also pointed people, including national leaders, to God.
Principle: God places people in their vocation and position in life for His higher purposes.
Work in most professions can seem ordinary unless you believe that God’s hand and purpose is in it. Work is not just being a good person, a moral person, and a skillful person at your job. All that is fine, but it is not the end-all. You are in a position God has placed you in to do His work. This will mean life change in you and in those surrounding you.
Many of us are like the Salvation Army man who was a drummer. When asked how his life had changed he said, “l used to drink a lot, but no more. I used to swear but not anymore. About all I do is stand on this street corner and beat this old drum.” This sounds like many Christians I know. It is sad when we discount the spiritual calling to work and miss the joy of God’s purpose in it.
There is another story we have all heard which better illustrates the sanctity of work. It is often told, but it bears repeating as it illustrates a truth about the sanctity of work. A man was walking past a construction site and stopped to talk to a couple of the workers. “What do you do?” he asked the first. “I’m a stone mason and it’s my job to make a wall.” He asked the second man who was chipping away at the stones. “I’m a stone cutter so that the stone mason can fit these rocks together.” He asked the third man who was carrying a load of mortar, “What are you doing?” The man joyfully answered, “I’m building a cathedral!”
It all depends on your viewpoint. Are you a salesman, or an ambassador for Christ? Are you known for your technical ability and Christ-like patience? Do you spend company finances and do it in a way that brings honor to God? Do you get up in the morning to manufacture something, or do you consider your role a sacred responsibility to minister to people who work for you?
Just asking.
Discussion:
1. Where do you find your identity? Are you more focused on what you do, or who you are?
2. Does who you are drive what you do? Or does what you do drive who you are?
3. Ask the Lord to remind you daily of your sacred privilege of living for Him.
