Today we’re looking at the 2nd characteristic that makes business “Christian.” Here is the link to the previous post: Christian Work is Creation-Fulfilling.
2. Excellence-Pursuing:
If our work is done “unto God,” it should be done according to the highest standards of excellence. Paul says, “And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him” (Colossians 3:17). That should be true whether we receive any reward for our work or not, or whether anyone ever notices.
Let’s be honest—it is demoralizing to work for someone who doesn’t give us credit for what we’ve done, or worse, only ever responds by offering critical feedback. A bad boss can make otherwise satisfying work an absolute terror. In a situation like that, most people lose the motivation to work with excellence. “After all,” they may think, “what is the point of working hard? No one will notice either way, and even if they do, I certainly won’t get the credit for it.” A reasonable response it may be…but a Christian one it is not.
Christians ought to pursue excellence in their work, not because they want to impress their boss, or because working hard leads to better pay, but because they work first for Christ. This perspective adds new significance to every task believers perform, even if they know they will never be recognized. They no longer require the approval of others in their work, because they no longer work primarily for others; they work first for Christ, and He deserves their best.
In reality, however, very few jobs go unnoticed, especially if done poorly. A Christian with a poor work ethic or sloppy academic performance gives the world a terrible testimony of Christ. He may say with his mouth that “Jesus is Lord,” but when he doesn’t care to turn in assignments on time or respect his boss, he is saying even louder, “I myself am lord.” In working with excellence, Christians not only serve God, but also display an attitude of service to the world.
