Relating the Mission of God to the Everyday Workplace
Introduction
The concept of a missional career invites believers to approach their work as more than a means of financial provision but as a divine calling. To live missionally is to join God at work, actively participating in His mission of redemption, reconciliation, restoration, and renewal in the world. This perspective transforms everyday occupations into avenues for glorifying God and serving others. For Christian believers, merging faith, career, and mission is not merely a possibility; it is a profound opportunity to embody Christ’s love and purpose in every professional endeavor. This essay explores five practical ways to integrate faith, career, and mission in your work.
1. Embrace Work as Worship
A foundational step in merging faith and career is viewing work as an act of worship. Colossians 3:23 encourages believers, “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.” By approaching tasks with excellence, integrity, and a heart of service, Christians reflect God’s character in their professional lives. Whether as teachers, healthcare workers, entrepreneurs, or artists, believers can honor God by using their skills and talents to bring about positive change and excellence in their respective fields. For instance, a teacher who goes the extra mile to inspire students or a chef who prepares meals with care and creativity demonstrates how work, when done for God’s glory, can become a form of worship. This perspective not only enriches one’s own sense of purpose but also serves as a testimony of faith to others in the workplace.
2. Cultivate Relationships for Kingdom Impact
Relationships are central to a missional career. God’s mission of reconciliation often unfolds through genuine connections. By fostering meaningful relationships with colleagues, clients, and the community, believers can embody the love and grace of Christ. For example, an accountant might demonstrate God’s kindness and patience in high-pressure situations, while a small business owner could create a workplace culture that values dignity, fairness, and collaboration. These relational investments open doors to share the Gospel naturally and authentically. Additionally, taking time to listen, offer encouragement, and support others in their struggles can reflect Christ’s compassion and love. Building trust and showing empathy creates opportunities for deeper conversations about faith, ultimately leading to transformational impact within professional and personal spheres.
3. Pursue Justice and Compassion in the Workplace
Participating in God’s mission also involves seeking justice and showing compassion in professional settings. Isaiah 1:17 calls believers to “seek justice, encourage the oppressed, defend the cause of the fatherless, plead the case of the widow.” In a missional career, this might look like advocating for fair labor practices, mentoring underserved individuals, or supporting ethical business practices. By standing up for what is right and caring for those who are marginalized, believers become agents of restoration and renewal in their industries. For instance, a corporate leader might implement policies that promote diversity and inclusion, while a social worker might provide resources to vulnerable populations. These acts of justice and compassion align with God’s heart for the oppressed and create ripple effects that extend His kingdom values into the workplace and beyond.
4. Integrate Faith-Based Values into Decision-Making
Another way to align one’s career with God’s mission is by incorporating faith-based principles into decision-making. Proverbs 3:5-6 exhorts believers to “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight.” This might involve making choices that prioritize integrity over profit, stewardship over waste, or community benefit over personal gain. For instance, a manager might choose to invest in sustainable practices or prioritize employee well-being over cutting costs, reflecting God’s values in every decision. Moreover, decisions that demonstrate transparency, honesty, and accountability can serve as a witness to the ethical standards grounded in faith. By placing trust in God and seeking His wisdom, believers can navigate complex professional challenges in ways that honor Him and inspire others.
5. Leverage Vocational Skills for Kingdom Advancement
Finally, believers can use their unique skills and resources to advance God’s mission globally and locally. A doctor might volunteer in underserved communities, a writer might craft stories that inspire hope, or a software developer might create tools that promote education or social good. These efforts contribute to God’s redemptive work by meeting tangible needs and pointing people toward His ultimate restoration. For example, a lawyer could offer pro bono services to individuals seeking justice, while an engineer might design sustainable solutions to address global challenges. By intentionally using their talents to serve others, Christians demonstrate the transformative power of faith in action. This approach not only fulfills personal calling but also extends God’s kingdom work in practical and impactful ways.
Conclusion
Integrating faith, career, and mission into a missional career transforms work into a powerful platform for advancing God’s kingdom. By embracing work as worship, cultivating meaningful relationships, pursuing justice, integrating faith-based values, and leveraging vocational skills for kingdom purposes, believers actively join God’s mission of redemption, reconciliation, restoration, and renewal. This holistic approach not only glorifies God but also brings hope, healing, and transformation to a world in need. For Christians, a missional career is more than an option—it is a profound calling to live out their faith in every aspect of life.
Dr. Curt Watke is a distinguished missiologist whose three-plus-decade-long career has significantly impacted Christian mission work in North America, particularly in under-reached and challenging regions. Holding a Ph.D. in Evangelism and Missions, Dr. Watke has focused on bridging cultural gaps and fostering sustainable Christian communities by developing innovative strategies that address contemporary challenges like globalization, urbanization, and religious pluralism. His emphasis on cultural sensitivity and contextualization in mission work is reflected in his collaborative writings, including notable works such as “Ministry Context Exploration: Understanding North American Cultures” and “Starting Reproducing Congregations.” Beyond his writing, Dr. Watke is a sought-after speaker and educator, lecturing at seminaries and conferences worldwide, and his teachings continue to inspire and equip new generations of missional leaders. His enduring legacy is marked by unwavering dedication to the mission of God and a profound influence on missional thought and practice. Dr. Watke serves as President and Professor of Evangelism & Missiology at Missional University.
