Explore the importance of discovering God's purpose and calling in work, debunking the myth of finding it in unexpected places. Learn how work can serve as worship, demonstrating redemption and advancing the gospel. Discover the impact of individuals in secular jobs on spreading the gospel and increasing the mission force in the 1040 window.
All followers of Jesus have a calling to leverage their skills and talents strategically for the mission of God.
Work as a calling involves pursuing excellence, reflecting holiness, displaying redemption, and advancing the mission of God.
Deep dives
Work as a Calling
Work is not just about sitting around, but actively pursuing answers to important questions, according to the speaker. The story of Larry Walters, who attached weather balloons to a lawn chair and went soaring into the sky, serves as a metaphor for the desire to have a new perspective on life and overcome the fear of making a difference. The speaker emphasizes that all followers of Jesus have a calling to leverage their lives for the Great Commission, using their skills and talents strategically for the mission of God.
Characteristics of Work as a Calling
Work as a calling is characterized by five key aspects. Firstly, it is creation-fulfilling, reflecting the idea that work is a part of God's original plan and a way to develop and improve the world around us. Secondly, work as a calling involves pursuing excellence, doing everything as if serving the Lord Himself. Thirdly, it is holiness reflecting, requiring ethical conduct that mirrors God's character. Fourthly, work as a calling displays the redemption of the gospel through generosity and selflessness. Lastly, work as a calling involves advancing the mission of God, considering how one's work can contribute to alleviating poverty and spreading the message of Jesus to unreached areas.
Viewing Work as Discipleship
The speaker highlights that work, especially in the secular realm, is the primary place where most individuals engage with their calling and live out their discipleship to Jesus. They are encouraged to see their jobs as gifts from God, where they can develop creation, pursue excellence, reflect holiness, display redemption, and advance the mission of God. The speaker suggests that followers of Jesus should approach their work with the mindset of serving others and seeking strategic avenues to bring glory to God through their talents and professions.
Have you ever been in the midst of some task—something lifegiving, challenging, and exciting all at once—and thought, “Man, it seems like I was made for this!”? What if that feeling wasn’t just a fleeting thought, but a picture of reality? What if God actually has given you a specific task, some way to reflect his kingdom?
In this episode of “12 Truths & A Lie,” Pastor J.D. teaches us what God thinks about our work. Many of us haven’t given that a lot of thought. What does God have to do with my job? Actually, quite a bit! Through your work, God can fulfill promises, display his redemption, and advance his mission.
Whether you’re a builder or a banker, a student, or a stay-at-home mom, you’ll learn the five ways you can approach your work from a uniquely Christian perspective.
New episodes are released every Monday—with bonus episodes every Thursday! Subscribe today so you don’t miss one!