Discussion Replies: Integrating Faith and Learning

Discussion – Integrating Faith and Learning

Author Note

            Amy L.

            I have no known conflict of interest to disclose.

            Correspondence concerning this article should be addressed to Amy L. Gutierrez.

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Introduction

      Keller (2012) provides many insights about how we should handle challenging work and better ways to honor God. Keller (2012) exclaims that work is a service to God and not a personal fulfillment and when faced with challenges at work, individuals should rely on faith in God. In contemporary practices/discussions, work is viewed as an act of self-fulfillment rather than an act of service. Keller (2012) encourages people to seek meaning in the work they do as a fulfillment in a relationship with God. This approach helps people see work as one aspect of life not their sole identity or purpose.

Contemporary view on work

      In contemporary discussions, work is often viewed through the lens of human psychology rather than spiritual perspectives. According to Babyak (2023), they explore the concept of self-regulation as a deliberate effort to maintain focus on current tasks and goals, while actively suppressing distractions and temptations. The upside about human-centered approach to work may prove beneficial for certain organizations, as it emphasizes purposeful service (Babyak, 2023). This perspective can bring challenges as service can sometimes be reduced to a means for personal achievement rather than fostering the development and success in the act of serving a bigger purpose (Babyak, 2023). Secular influences, including corporate culture and self-help ideologies, often take precedence over biblical principles in shaping contemporary perspectives on work in today's world.

Christ-centered view on work

      Foundational to Christ-centered honest work is a biblical perspective that centers on Jesus Christ as the supreme model. The sacrificial love, humility, and selflessness demonstrated by Jesus form the bedrock of Christ-centered honest work, serving as ideals for leaders committed to biblical values (Wickam, 2020). Teachings from Mark 10:42-45 emphasize the importance of humility and service, irrespective of one's position (Wickam, 2020). Through honest work individuals are able to not only focus on outward service but also on spiritual transformation (Wickam, 2020).

Work as an act of Service to God

      “In particular, Christians must always be exploring – in communicates of faith and practice – how it would be possible for their field of work to be more just and beneficial for more people” (Keller, 2012, pp. 228- 229). In this course, we are doing honest work for others to see different perspectives/points of view that rely on facts. Christians should grasp this transformative perspective on the purpose of their work in society. Our job choices and how we carry out our work should not solely aim at personal fulfillment or gaining power. Being called by God to a task is empowering in itself. Instead, we are to view work as a means of serving God and others. Therefore, both our career decisions and our approach to work should align with this higher purpose of service. Scripture teaches that work is not only meaningful, but purpose driven. Matthew 25:14-30 (NIV, 2017) emphasizes that God has endowed each person with unique talents and gifts meant to be used in accordance with His design (McMahone, 2019). Christian leaders are called to prioritize the overall well-being of their employees, striving to cultivate workplaces that embody virtues central to Christian and servant leadership—such as love, service, grace, and humility (Keller, 2014; McMahone, 2019).

Conclusion

      Keller (2012) underscores that work, when viewed from a Christian standpoint, goes beyond personal gain or advancement. It becomes a significant way to serve God. Keller urges us to see our careers and daily tasks as opportunities to contribute positively to society, reflecting God's intention for human creativity and responsibility. By integrating biblical values like diligence, integrity, and compassion into our work, we fulfill our calling to embody God's character and to serve others with humility and kindness. This perspective transforms our view of work into a meaningful and sacred endeavor, aligning our efforts with God's purposes for His kingdom and the betterment of humanity.

References

Babyak, A. T. (2023). Toward a theory of biblical leadership. Journal of Biblical Integration in Business, 21(1), 55-66. https:// cbfa-jbib.org/index.php/jbib/article/view/493

Keller, T. & Alsdorf, K. L., (2012). Every good endeavor: Connecting your work to God’s work. (7th ed.). Penguin Books.

McMahone, M. (2019). Discipleship as process: The manager’s role in connecting people to faith. Journal of Biblical Integration in Business, 22(1).

New International Version Bible (NIV). (1973/2011). Tyndale House Publisher

Wickam, M. (2022). Conscious capitalism: An emerging economic philosophy for higher purpose in business. Journal of Biblical Integration in Business, 25(1), 83-90. https://doi.org/10.69492/jbib.v25i1.625

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