Discussions about life...: September 2008

I have given a lot of thought to the idea that God has placed us in a particular job because that's where He feels that we can either make a difference in our workplace or grow our character in some manner. This is an idea that I have wrestled with personally for some time. When I started working at my current employer, it was just a job to pay the bills. As I grew in my position, it became clear that my superiors viewed my position not as just a job, but a potential career path. I was very hesitant to look at my position as a career path for a lot of reasons. First, I had always been the type of employee that was responsible for implementing job assignments, not drafting or directing them. Second, my education and previous work experience was related to envrionmental field work, not safety or human resources. Third, I had never been in a position that was high profile, with reporting responsibilities to upper management or the board.

After a lot of thought and prayer, God helped me to realize some aspects that I had been missing. My superiors would not have placed more and more responsibilty upon me if they didn't feel that I was capable of handling the additional tasks. I was also building great personal relationships throughout the company branch locations that would benefit me immensely down the road. I am fortunate to work for a company that works hard to promote from within and lift up employees that are willing to take on more exposure. As an employee owned company with lean management, there is a great desire to do what is best for everyone. I've been able to move from a person that wouldn't speak at all in a public setting to someone that can conduct training and build teams. I have job security in uncertain times and have been able to provide for my family in this very busy season of our lives. Most important, I was able to come to Christ through the guidance and examples of our corporate chaplain and a few colleagues that are great examples of people whose lives are Christ centered.

Sure, my current job isn't what I would consider my ideal occupation. I have a heart for other interests such as helping children as they discover the challenges and beauty of outdoor activities or working with books and historical document preservation. However, as I am reminded to ask God how I can work for Him each day, I've seen how my job lets me better the lives of others in my company to the best of my abilities.