Column: Couch’s Corner

“If you were of the world, the world would love you as its own; but because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you” (John 15:19).

How should Christians approach working in a secular environment?

Having a strong relationship with the Lord will have ripple effects that impact earthly relationships. 

The attraction of following the crowd and the feelings of acceptance that come with it are genuine realities that should be expected when entering a secular workplace.

However, having a healthy perspective of what being a disciple of Christ looks like includes understanding that a Christian’s completion is found solely in the saving power of Jesus alone. The world will despise us because they see Christ in us. 

Being a benefactor of the salvation given to Christians through Christ’s death and resurrection changes everything for those who accept this gift. Knowing that pleasing people is not what we are created for results in true peace
and relief.

When we aim to please the Lord alone, worry about acceptance in the workplace fades. The visual product of honoring the Lord in our day-to-day life at work will lead to a reputation of integrity, kindness and respect for authority.

Worrying about others’ perceptions of you contributes to anxiety and shifts daily focus from Christ to earthly cares. The most dedicated disciples of Jesus do not appear as impressive to the earthly eye as some of their coworkers do.

It is not because mature Christians dislike sporty cars or fine clothing. It is because falling in love with Christ opens our eyes to the reality that every soul will last for eternity in either Heaven or Hell. 

What we decide to do with today can significantly impact tomorrow. Judging your colleagues will alienate them. Building relationships with colleagues genuinely and intentionally will not. Everyone desires care and a listening ear.

Once you have established a relationship with an unbelieving coworker, a door will be opened to share the story of Christ with them. Be intentional and diligent each day in your personal Bible devotional time and let the love that you have for Christ overflow into your workplace.

My dad once told me that it is impossible to be everyone’s savior. Our responsibility is to plant seeds and allow the Holy Spirit to do the work in their heart.

When I began to grasp what that statement meant, my workplace perspective began to change.

Christians should be the best employees. Knowing with certainty that this world is not our home should propel believers to make the most out of each day, recognizing that tomorrow is not promised.

“Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him” (1 John 2:15). 

Elevating the world as our highest priority is a road leading to disappointment because we are created beings. There is a void in all of us that can only be satisfied by Christ. Simply put, we are the created in need of our Creator. 

“But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect” (1 Peter 3:15).

Colleagues will notice a difference in coworkers who exemplify care that stems from their love for Christ. This curiosity will prompt them to inquire about our Savior.

To the believer struggling to stay positive in a work environment that is hostile to Christianity: pursue him passionately, love him intimately and serve him wholeheartedly.