Your Purpose vs. Your Job

by Glenda Giles

Have you ever had a job where most of the employees (including you) complained? Have you worked at a company whose environment was unhealthy, and you dreaded going to work? Usually when this happens, the first reaction is to find another job or to just quit. Have you ever thought, even though the conditions were terrible that maybe, you were in the right place at the right time? I am sure you are saying a resounding, “NO!” I have been employed at companies where both scenarios happened, and I found another job. I was not going to deal with it. But that is not always the right course of action to take.

 

I like to refer to my jobs as assignments. In the Webster 1828 Dictionary, an assignment is defined as “an appointment to a particular person or use”. My job is my assignment. God has given me this assignment. He has appointed me to be here.

  • Proverbs 3:5: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding” (NASB).
  • Romans 8:28: “And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose” (NASB).

 

When it looks like things are not in your favor, sometimes, it may be best to stay present and wait. Things may not always be what they seem. Did God tell you to take the job you currently have? If so, trust Him and know that He has something good in store for you. What is happening to you is no surprise to Him. He knows the outcome. The best thing to do is ask Him for the strength to endure the hardship. If He did not tell you to take the job, then ask Him what you need to do. Believe me, He is not trying to hide anything from you.

  • Colossians 3:23: “Whatever you do, do your work heartily, as for the Lord [b]rather than for men”(NASB).
  • Matthew 5:16: “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” (NASB).

 

While you are working, do your job to the best of your ability. You are working for the Lord and everything you do should be pleasing in His eyesight. Arrive on time and don’t leave early. When you arrive to work, your light should shine. Greet everyone you see with a smile and a warm hello. Complete the tasks given to you by your boss in excellence. Did you know that others are watching you? Your actions can affect the behavior of others and even add to the tension and negative atmosphere that is present.

 

Instead of complaining and exhibiting a negative attitude, pause, take a deep breath and ask God, “Why am I here?” Again, He will tell you. But you must be open to what He says. He may have assigned you to that position so that you can learn a new skill or learn how to work with certain people. He may be setting you up for a divine meeting with someone to take you to your next level. All these things could play an important part in you finding and fulfilling your purpose. Focus on your assignment and not the job.

 

Edited by Tiffany Buckner

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