We all want to succeed in our work and be good at what we do. Those of us who work full-time invest at least 40 hours a week or 2080 hours a year in our workplaces. Our careers represent an enormous amount of our time and energy. Naturally, this is an area we want to excel.
Whether or not we realize it, we all possess habits that impact our degree of success or failure. Occasionally, I’ll read a business book that outlines principles that are designed to help people succeed in the workplace. Even though most business books are secular in nature, they almost always contain at least a few principles that are grounded in Scripture.
Why?
The Scriptures are the greatest resource on the planet for wise living.
Here are three biblical principles that will set you apart in the workplace:
- Refuse to complain. There are few things more toxic than chronic complaining. I made this mistake early on in my career, and I regret it to this day. If you don’t think God takes complaining seriously, go back and read the account of the Israelites in the wilderness. (Exodus 15-17, Numbers 11:1-11). God hates complaining. So does our boss, coworkers, and family members. Emotionally healthy and productive people don’t want to listen to complaining. Complainers seldom offer solutions, but rather marinate in their problems. Undoubtedly, there are times when problems arise and we need to voice our concerns. But instead of complaining about the problem, we need to offer solutions to people who have the authority to fix the situation. Otherwise, we need to resolve not to complain. By doing so, we will be far happier and so will the people around us.
- Own your mistakes. We’re all human and we foul up on occasion. When we make a mistake, we need to own it. It’s human nature to want to shift the blame or make excuses. When God confronted Adam in the Garden of Eden because he and Eve had eaten from the forbidden tree Adam responded by telling God, “The woman whom you gave to be with me, she gave me fruit of the tree, and I ate.” (Genesis 3:12) Adam blamed Eve and he blamed God for giving her to him. Passing blame shows a lack of leadership and a high degree of immaturity. When we make a mistake we need to acknowledge our error, apologize for it, and communicate how we will do things differently next time.
- Hustle. Both John Wooden and Maya Angelou have been quoted as saying, “Nothing will work unless you do.” Sadly, many people, including Christians, do just enough to get by. The Scriptures summons Christ followers to a different way of living. Paul wrote, “Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ.” (Colossians 3:23-24). Christ followers are called to be the most productive people in their workplaces. If we want to find great satisfaction in our work, we will need to do our best work day in and day out.
Monday morning will be upon us 52 times every year. All of us invest an enormous amount of time in our workplaces. We’ve got the ability to dramatically influence how we relate to our work. Why not commit to habits that will contribute to our success?
