And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men, 24 knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance; for you serve the Lord Christ.

Colossians 3:23-24 (NKJV)

The Apostle Paul tells us to serve the Lord by working “heartily” for Him and not for men. When this is the reason for going to work, you are fulfilling a calling rather than pursuing a career.

A career path is a decision you make on your own. It can be driven by the desire to build an outstanding professional reputation or to maximize one's income. The goal is ultimately about pleasing yourself. A calling, on the other hand, is God-led and God-initiated. That means God fuels your desire and gives you the grace and strength to fulfill it. Abraham was called to go out to a place that he was to receive as an inheritance. Similarly, we are promised a heavenly reward when we learn to live and serve Christ wherever He leads.

What does it look like to glorify Jesus in the workplace?

Treat your job as a calling.

When your purpose, meaning and passion aligns with God’s will, it can lead to a healthier level of job satisfaction and as well as many opportunities to witness for Christ.

Follow what Paul writes in Colossians. Learn to be a good subordinate to your employer at all times. Have a positive work attitude instead of complaining and showing frustration. Serve with sincerity and not only work hard when being watched.

Rather than simply loving your job, love your peers and colleagues as Christ loves you. This builds trust and credibility. Instead of cajoling them to go to church, bring the joy of the gospel to them. Be an encourager and be a friend. Let them see the good news in you instead of just hearing it from you.