What Does “Workplace Excellence” Mean for a Christian?

And how does one “do their best” in a Godly way?

It is often assumed that the idea or concept of “workplace excellence” belongs only to the world of Man, often associated as a method of gaining wealth, a measure of achievement, and as a means of providing for one’s family. Yet, in a biblical sense, “Workplace Excellence” for the Christian now means so much more.

Now, let us first agree that work is a good thing, where good honest labor is seen as a good thing before God. Ephesians 4:28, “28 Let the thief no longer steal, but rather let him labor, doing honest work with his own hands, so that he may have something to share with anyone in need.”

However, from this one verse, one can also see that work or labour, is to be conducted in a manner where it is deemed to be “honest”. This signals the idea of responsible productivity with accountability. While it can be tempting to take short cuts or avoid expectations in the workplace, Christian workers are called to be honest before God and Man in the conduct of his labour.

What this also means for a Christian worker is looking beyond how they use what they produce for their own family, but also how they use it for those around them who are in need. The perimeter of one’s influence with their labour actually expands outwards beyond contributing to family, where it extends into one’s society. As such, it is helpful to ask yourself from time to time if the good work of your hand extends beyond your immediate circle of responsibility?

Lastly, which I believe is the most essential when considering “workplace excellence” for our Lord, is to ensure that our labor -whether the environment or conduct of it - must be found within the will of God in scripture. Essentially, our labour should allow for us to… Remain in our Salvation, Not to sin, Do good, and to be able to Give Thanks in all Circumstance. Your work or workplace ought not to be a reason you, as a Christian, act against your faith and good will towards God.

There are certain circumstances, often hidden under terms such as “industry practices” and “workplace culture”, that contribute negatively to the relationship that one is to cherish between a Believer and God. These Practices and Cultures place one in sin and Godlessness, and in a circumstance where Goodness and Honesty are shunned. And even though one may benefit financially from such circumstances, they most definitely do not correlate to a biblical picture of “workplace excellence”. Therefore, avoid such places of work that draw you away from the will of God. Ultimately, your Workplace or Marketplace excellence will lead you to this conclusion, … “31 So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.” (1 Cor 10:31)