How the Gospel Transforms Our Work Dynamics

By Mirely Maldonado

“Exhort bondservants to be obedient to their own masters, to be well pleasing in all things, not answering back, not pilfering, but showing all good fidelity, that they may adorn the doctrine of God our Savior in all things.”—Titus 2:9–10 (NKJV)

How are you doing in “keeping it together” at work? Whether work is at a job outside of the home, from home, a traveling job, or you stay home caring for your family, staying calm and sensible (continually) can prove to be a challenge when you are constantly dealing with other people—am I right or am I right?

Our God created us individually with our own path to journey. He has a job for us to do until He calls us out of this world, and He wants us to live in abundance and joy: “For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit” (Romans 14:17 NKJV).

If you don’t know who the Holy Spirit is, I have news for you. You know how there’s good or bad news that can change your life? This is one of those. The gospel, the best news you could ever know, is about how God came down to the earth, took on flesh, lived a perfect life, and then willingly sacrificed His life for the payment of our sins so He could open a way of eternal salvation for all humanity. This news can transform us in ways we never thought possible!

When we ask Him to be Lord of our lives, part of the gift He gives us is His Spirit. According to Galatians 5:22–23, the fruit or evidence of that Spirit in our lives will be love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.

Jesus told people “You have heard that it was said, ‘Eye for eye, and tooth for tooth.’ But I tell you, do not resist an evil person. If anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to them the other cheek also. And if anyone wants to sue you and take your shirt, hand over your coat as well.” (Matthew 5:38–40 NIV) This is so backwards to us. We want justice, payback, vengeance, or the last word. But He wants us to be swift to hear, slow to speak, and slow to anger (James 1:19). The Lord Himself says, “Vengeance belongs to Me; I will repay” (Deuteronomy 32:35 HCSB). Do we trust Him?

Joseph’s story in Genesis chapters 37–50 is a powerful testimony. Even after being mistreated by his family, sold by them into slavery, falsely accused by his master’s wife, and then consequently thrown into prison when he was just trying to be honorable, he persevered. And, after many years of trials, there was a turn of events and Joseph was commended and given a position of great authority by Pharaoh! He even had the opportunity to take revenge towards his family, but instead showed them mercy and restoration took place among them.

We cannot keep it together on our own. The Word and the Holy Spirit are our main sources of accountability as well as agents for change in our lives. We can only persevere through Him who strengthens us!

Pause: What are ways you show frustration in your work dynamics? What can you ask God to help you change in yourself?

Practice: Read the story of Joseph’s life (Genesis 37–50).

Pray: Dear Lord, I pray You will show me ways my heart needs to change so others around me will see more of Your goodness through my life no matter what challenges come my way. Help guide me in making the changes needed, and bring peace to my heart. Amen.