Is my WORK a MINISTRY?
During my time as President of Corpath, I have to say, it's truly inspiring to see you, the broader community, express the desire to integrate your faith seamlessly into your role as a business leaders in the secular marketplace. Your commitment to being a guiding light amidst the busy-ness and challenges of the corporate world speaks clearly about your dedication to living out your Christian values in every aspect of your life.
As Christian leaders (in a secular setting), I believe you/we have a unique opportunity to embody the teachings of Christ through your actions, words, and decisions.
SERVANT Leadership
One of the fundamental aspects of being a Christian leader is "servant leadership", following the example of Jesus who said in Matthew 20:28, "the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many." By adopting a mindset of service and humility, you can inspire and uplift those around you.
Q: Do you view your job/business as a "calling or ministry" to serve others? Why or why not?
Viewing our work as a ministry or calling is a powerful perspective that can infuse our daily tasks with significant purpose and meaning.
Ephesians 2:10 reminds us that "we are God's handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do."
Recognizing that your work is part of God's plan for your life can help you approach your responsibilities with diligence, integrity, and a desire to glorify Him in all that you do.
Create a CULTURE of Compassion and Discernment
Finding subtle yet impactful ways to show your faith requires creativity and discernment. One way we, as Corpath members, can do this is to create a culture of compassion and kindness in the workplace where everyone feels valued and respected.
Q: Would you say your work environment promotes kindness and compassion at all times?
Galatians 5:22-23 speaks of the fruits of the Spirit, including love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. By embodying these qualities in your interactions with colleagues, clients, and employees, you reflect the character of Christ and make a positive impact on those around you.
Bring PRAYER to Work
Another way we bring Christ to our daily occupation is to integrate prayer and reflection into our daily routine. Whether it's starting meetings with a moment of silence or offering to pray for a colleague who is going through a difficult time, you can demonstrate the power of faith in action.
Philippians 4:6-7 encourages us to "not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."
Q: How do you feel about engaging in prayer during your work day? (whether privately or openly)
Lead with INTEGRITY
Lastly, we can lead by example in ethical decision-making and integrity in business practices.
Proverbs 11:3 reminds us that "the integrity of the upright guides them, but the unfaithful are destroyed by their duplicity."
By prioritizing honesty, transparency, and fairness in your dealings, you can build trust and credibility, demonstrating the transformative power of Christian values in the workplace.
Q: Would those around you agree that you lead with fairness and integrity?
Final Thoughts
As you embrace your role as a Christian leader in the secular marketplace, I want to encourage your take time for reflection and prayer, and ask yourself questions such as:
How can I use my position of influence to positively impact others?
How can I demonstrate Christ's love and grace in challenging situations?
How can I align my actions with my faith principles in every decision I make?
Remember, you are not alone in this journey. God goes before you, guiding your steps and empowering you to be a light in the darkness. Your Corpath brothers and sisters are also with you in spirit. Keep shining brightly, because your faithfulness and obedience are making a difference in ways you may never fully realize.
My Prayer
Heavenly Father, we thank you for being part of a community who seeks to honour you in our roles as a business leaders. This week, we pray that you would grant us wisdom, courage, and discernment as we navigate the complexities of our daily vocations. May we shine brightly as a beacon of Your love and grace, touching the lives of those around us with compassion and kindness. Strengthen us in our faith, and may we always find joy and fulfillment in serving you through our work.
In Jesus' name, we pray, Amen.
Steve Shrout
President, Corpath Forums
Email: president@corpath.ca
"Pursuing Excellence in Business, Life and Spirit"
Special Note:
If you enjoyed today’s message, then share it with someone. Also, use this content and questions as a discussion guide in your next Forum Group meeting.
Attached to this is a printable/ fillable PDF you can use to help with your meditation and reflection. I encourage you to print it, answer the questions, and then keep it in a Corpath binder or folder for future reference and thought. You will receive a new PDF each week with each new Monday Meditation, and, over time, your binder will become a book representing your Corpath journey of BUSINESS thoughts, personal LIFE development, and SPIRITUAL growth.
