Honesty, Integrity, and Work

And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men, 24 knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance; for you serve the Lord Christ. 25 But he who does wrong will be repaid for what he has done, and there is no partiality.

Put your strength, energy, time and heart into your work as it shows your honesty. Even if you are an employee, work hard for your employer and realize you are serving the Lord. Your character that manifests itself in the workplace, with your family and community has more to do with your success in God’s plan than a large back account.

The kind of person you are says volumes about your character. Who makes a powerful witness for Jesus Christ?

Our nation is in a financial crisis right now. Whether we recognize it or not we are stewards. God put us here to work and be productive and be a strong Christian witness. When we seek to find Biblical principles of life management, we are following the best character of the universe.

We may not become wealthy according to the world’s standards. If we follow God’s principles, we will be blessed. Life is more than earning a living. Work is not about just providing an income. As Christians, we are faced with giving a response to the Great Commission of spreading the Gospel of Christ.

Mark 16:15
And He said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature.

When we work, we are witnessing for Christ. Your job is your mission field. Biblical principles of management are found throughout the Bible and in particular in the book of Proverbs.

Proverbs 3:5-10
Trust in the LORD with all your heart,
      And lean not on your own understanding;
       6 In all your ways acknowledge Him,
      And He shall direct your paths.
       7 Do not be wise in your own eyes;
      Fear the LORD and depart from evil.
       8 It will be health to your flesh,
      And strength to your bones.
       9 Honor the LORD with your possessions,
      And with the first fruits of all your increase;
       10 So your barns will be filled with plenty,
      And your vats will overflow with new wine.
      
Lean not on your own understanding. Do not be wise in your own eyes, or proud or arrogant. Pride and arrogance destroy the person and all people around them. Pride destroys institutions and nations. Just look at King Nebuchadnezzar in Babylon.

If at all possible, raise a child up on one income and let one parent work and one take care of the child. The children will benefit from not being in day care. The extra income from a two income family increases the families tax burden and once you pay tithe on the additional income, there is not that much more net income in the household.