Application of Integrating Faith and Work - Term Paper Example

? Application of Integrating Faith and Work Application of Integrating Faith and Work Introduction Each work and job place normally has various attitudes linked to its surrounding and employees. Although attending secular work is mostly associated with wealth acquisition and health issues, the Christian belief requires that faith is incorporated in the middle of all our activities. This concept is illustrated in various texts, articles and concepts, which provide appropriate examples of this integration. As a result, it assists individuals to assess their level of integration with regards to their personal values. Subsequently, they serve as guiding principles that individuals can apply to obtain better integration and connection between religion and secularity in terms of faith and work. Level of Faith and Work Integration My current level of faith and work integration is quite impressive. I have been able to incorporate most themes and values that are highlighted in the texts. It is now possible to follow most of the rules and laws of God that are highlighted by Maxwell (2007). With regards to good stewardship, I now tend to be more of a leader and role model than in the past. I also try as much as it is possible to serve others and not to be served. I consider this because it is also a way of communicating God’s message to different people. Thus, the two areas seem to be integrated in the sense that ethics, religion and the law governing secular actions are related. They also emphasize on various similar issues (Maxwell, 2007). As such, the connection tends to bring about a superficial connection that exhibits the “oneness” between the two lives. However, they appear to be in conflict or distinct based on different workplace cultures. This is as a result of the set rules that may be against some of the Christian practices such as evangelism. In addition, there may be work related pressure and stress that may create barriers against evangelical practices (Johnson et al, 2001). Personal Values and their Relation to faith and work In assisting individuals in their pursuit of good Christian and biblical values at the workplace, Beckett provides practical ideas and examples to workers in all fields. In this sense, I have been able to practice and cultivate various values and habits. These include a number of ethical behaviors that are encouraged by the Christian faith. Upholding most of these values has made it possible to improve on my honesty, integrity, enhance respect for customers, fairness and trustworthiness (2006). These personal values have a significant impact on the integration of faith and work. It is in the sense that they have facilitated my closeness with God in the effort to implement them in my workplace. Beckett’s Workplace Themes Beckett presents five workplace themes that are extremely fundamental and applicable to different workplaces. They are purpose, people, value, serving and stewardship (2006). At my workplace, each of these themes can be addressed through their adoption as policies. For instance, the theme of people can be modified to direct employees on how they can associate with each other as well as with customers according to God’s law. This could include love, and concern for each other. The purpose of the work can also be formulated in a manner through which God’s wishes can be reflected. With regards to stewardship as portrayed by Maxwell, the company can be responsible for different resources such as the environment (2007). With this, adequate planning and management should be involved to avoid wastage and destruction. Particularly, good stewardship should be displayed by using gifts to serve others. In relation to my workplace and leadership efforts, varied reasons that would lead to God’s judgment are presented. The development of too much ambition without heeding to God’s word is a paramount reason. This is because it breeds evil thoughts such as greed and lies in the form of corruption, egocentrism, desire for another person’s property or position and pride. Consequently, one leads an unholy life that is prone to judgment (Johnson et al, 2001). A proper example of a spiritual role model is presented in the Beckett text. This is David who despite his shortcomings was still able to work in constant relation with God. The study of this personality as a leader has provided me with numerous insights that include acceptance that one can make wrongs in spite of the relationship with God (2006). However, it only depends on our faith and level of service with him. Most of this can be applied to the mistakes made, and the balance between work and God in my capacity as a leader. It highlights on the importance of wisdom, openness and transparency to handle both life and God’s work (Beckett, 2006; Johnson, Nelson, & LaHaye, 2001). These according to Johnson, Nelson and LaHaye, makes an individual prepared for the challenges presented by this move. They argue that it is because of the struggles that leaders can become better. Moreover, it makes me realize that God is the overall power who should be given maximum power and served genuinely (2001). From this self study and analysis, it is imperative that I need to make my integration of faith ad work more comprehensive. To achieve this, it will be essential to make improvements and continue learning in some areas. Jesus as depicted by Beckett is a clear example of humility in leadership. He does it by demonstrating that a leader should not be served but be willing to serve his subjects always. This is in the way he opts to wash his disciples’ feet. By following this example, I should be able to extend my services more than I expect to be served by my subordinates. In addition, I am expected to be more practical and lead by example. In this case, changes should be communicated to other employees and done practically for everyone to understand the idea. Furthermore, a lot of faith is required for the integration process to be fruitful. As such, these practical actions serve as a means of evangelism. Other steps may include joining other Faithfull’s in movements that aim at transforming their work in faith for the pursuit of a common goal. Constant wisdom should also be sought by frequent reading of the Bible. Finally, the need to walk constantly with God should be converted into a passionate venture. Conclusion Intentional integration of faith and work together with God’s kingdom have been extensively enhanced by the study of this course. This is because of the experience brought about by the changing presence of God in the workplace, which can currently be felt. It is from this course that I have also realized that non believers look up to us for judgment. As such, we should always act in ways they give the impression that we are doing things in the approach that God wants them to be done. References Beckett, J.D. (2006). Mastering Monday: A guide to integrating faith and work (1st Ed.). Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press. Johnson, D.L., Nelson, D., & LaHaye, T. (2001). The Transparent Leader: Spiritual Secrets of Nineteen Successful Men. Mechanicsburg, PA: Executive Books. Maxwell, J.C. (2007). The Maxwell Leadership Bible. Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson, Inc. Read More