THE MARKETPLACE

We must do the work of Him who has sent me, as long as it is day. For night is coming when no one can work. – John 9:4

In the New Testament, Jesus made:

• 132 public appearances – 122 were in the marketplace
• 52 parables that Jesus told – 45 had a workplace context
• 40 miracles in the Book of Acts – 39 were in the marketplace

Work, in its different forms, is mentioned more than 800 times in the Bible – more than all the words used to express worship, music, praise and singing combined. Don’t minimize your daily work – it is nothing less than a holy calling. God has you right where He wants you ... right now! Remember, Jesus was a carpenter most of His adult life.

Lead with love. You were created to be like Christ. Are you being transformed by the truth? Do others see Christ in you ... even at work?

Do what you say you’re going to do. You were shaped for serving God. You were also shaped to serve others, sp be a servant leader. Are you playing marbles with diamonds God has given you?

Live what you say you believe. Live out loud. Let Christ be seen in all you say and do. Colossians 3:23-24 – “Whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance; for you serve the Lord Christ.”

Think and pray
The impression you make on others during the work week may be the primary impression they have about Christianity. Are you taking full advantage of your time and influence to help those you work with know and follow God?

Heavenly Father, help me to fully live out my faith in Jesus for all the world to see, and especially in my workplace where many have yet to believe and trust in You. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Marty Stubblefield is a husband, father, businessperson, youth coach, and former college basketball player. Having spent 34+ years in Banking, Bank Administration and State Government across the Southeast, he brings a different view of faith, life, and the struggles we face in the marketplace and our day-to-day lives. He has been married to Amy for 28 years, has three daughters, a son-in-law, grandson, and two Labradoodles. He blogs weekly at oldlazydog.com.