A survey by the Families and Work Institute found that 70 percent of people in the United States often dream about doing something different for a living. Books, consultants, and employment agencies offer to help us land our dream job. But is finding a different occupation always the solution to job dissatisfaction? Or could the key be discovering a new approach to our present situation?
Twice in Colossians 3, Paul used the phrase "whatever you do" as a call for wholehearted service to the Lord. He wrote, "Whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him" (v. 17). And again, "Whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men" (v. 23).
If we’re working for a critical ungrateful boss, we’ll tend to put forth minimum effort. But if our work is done for Christ, we’ll strive to do our best all the time. The boss may sign our paycheck, but the Savior issues our reward (v. 24).
It’s not wrong to seek work that fits our skills and interests. But it’s futile to move from one job to another without settling the issue of whom we are serving.
An old job can become new when we choose to do it for the Lord. – David C. McCasland
Thinking It Over
What is your dream job? What makes it hard to do your work with a good attitude? How will doing your work "as to the Lord" change your attitude and work habits?
Read: Colossians 3:1-4, 22-25
Daily work takes on eternal value when it’s done for God.