Aligning work and values

"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jeremiah 29. 11

Last night I tuned in to Praxis, an on-line course run by Tearfund to encourage Christians to put our faith into action. That particular session was looking at values and how to align those which are most precious to us with the way we spend our time and, in particular, with the work we do to serve the community and earn a living.

Why not take a moment to consider the values which you prize above all others? Write a list and then select the top 5 or 10. Then ask yourself: Is what I do - with my leisure and in my work - consistent with these values? If the answer is "yes" be encouraged! If it is "no" what are you going to do about it?

Several of those leading Praxis explained how this very exercise had transformed their lives, stimulating career changes and, in at least one case, leading them to move overseas for a significant period of time. It is intriguing to think what the economy would look like if everybody was doing their best and managing to align their work with the values they hold dear?

This might sound indulgent but not if it is about using the passions and resources God has given us to best effect. The gist of Jeremiah's proclamation above is that God made you in a certain way, with a unique set of talents and abilities and put within you a unique mix of values and impulses. So it stands to reason that you/ we are most faithful and effective when we align all of these God-given gifts.

Set out today on a new life with Christ...