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I’m examining working by Jesus rules, because Jesus had lots to say about our attitude toward our work, our work habits and our performance.
I’m reminded of the time when Jesus taught Peter something about fishing. You’ll find the story in Luke 5. Jesus was walking along the shores of the Sea of Galilee and saw Peter fishing—or trying to.
He gave him some advice:
‘Put out into deep water and let down the nets for a catch’ (Luke 5:4).
Notice Peter’s answer:
‘Master, we’ve worked hard all night and haven’t caught anything. But because you say so, I will let down the nets’ (Luke 5:5).
Can’t you hear Peter’s mind working: You’re a carpenter; what do you know about fishing? I’m a fisherman; I know how and where and when to catch fish, and your instructions don’t make sense. But just because Jesus said to do it, he did and caught such a large number of fish that their nets began to break. Peter had never seen anything like this, and it humbled him as he worshiped Jesus and acknowledged Jesus had control over fish and all he had to do was obey.
Whatever your job is, Jesus knows more about it than you do. He is all-knowing, so when you’re facing some dilemma on your job, when you need help and advice, why don’t you go to Jesus first and foremost and ask him what to do? The Word of God has all kinds of good advice that is very applicable to every issue you’re facing, on the job and elsewhere.
Make it a daily habit to present your needs and requests concerning your job to Jesus and expect him to give you wisdom and strength and guidance. A good friend of mine is in a very high-powered, stressful job, which she believes is exactly where God has put her to be a witness for him. Many times, she sends me a text to pray for a specific situation she’s facing on her job. Why don’t you form a buddy-system with someone you know and agree to pray specifically for each other’s job issues. Two other friends of mine agreed to pray by phone each morning before going to work, and they did that for years. They have wonderful testimonies of how God gave them wisdom and help on their jobs.
Learn to depend on Jesus and his Word for guidance as you face tough decisions. He’s a Wonderful Counselor, and you won’t be disappointed.