Healthy plants have deep roots and strong pillars have solid foundations. If we are to be Christians who are deeply rooted in Christ and built on the solid Rock, then we need more than mere sound bites. One means that the Lord has used throughout church history to strengthen His people’s faith and witness is reading good books. This book review series is identifying books that can serve as shovels that help you dig deeper in your Christian life.
Book: GRACE AT WORK – Redeeming the Grind & the Glory of Your Job by Bryan Chapell.
In Colossians 3, the apostle Paul writes: “Whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him” (v. 17). “Everything” includes our work, as Paul continues: “Whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men” (v. 23). In our work, we profess who we are. “What that means in the workplace is that we should work as though we have the name of Christ upon us” (p. 38), and that He “should get the credit for what we do and who we are because apart from him we can do nothing (John 15:5).” This includes the products we produce, but also how we act towards others in the workplace. “We realize that our work is not just about us but about its effects on others” and that every job has a purpose, no matter how menial it is (p. 44-45).
This is true for a company president, but Scripture also has something to say to the most menial worker: “Servants [or slaves], obey in all things your masters according to the flesh; not with eyeservice, as men-pleasers; but in singleness of heart, fearing God” (Col. 3:22). In Bible times, slavery often was not as cruel as in our more recent past, but it does mean we should value the lowest status of workers in our society. In a society where it seems that many young people (and older ones) want an easy job with high pay, we should be asking, “What are my talents? What are my gifts? and how can I best serve God” (p. 47). But also, our integrity or honesty in the workplace is important, which may include self-sacrifice and suffering. Chapter 3 is an encouragement to look to the Savior because He suffered, and God determines our status and outcome.
In your work you profess who you are. What is your attitude and efforts at work professing about you?
GRACE AT WORK – Redeeming the Grind & the Glory of Your Job by Bryan Chapell. Published by Crossway, 1300 Crescent Street, Wheaton, Illinois, 60187, 2022. Softcover, 233 pages.
Buy this book by clicking here.
- This is adapted from Mrs. Ricky (Frederika) Pronk’s book reviews in The Messenger. She is a member of Grace Free Reformed Church in Brantford, Ontario and, together with her husband Rev. C. Pronk, is involved in Reformed Book Services
Comments