Jonathan Munson, Executive Director

“Whatever you do, whether in word or in deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to the Father through Him.” 
Colossians 3:17

If you’ve ever started a new job, you know how important a job description is. It outlines your primary responsibilities within the organization. Surprisingly, employers are not legally required to provide job descriptions to their employees. Can you imagine trying to do your job without knowing what’s expected?

I wonder if this is how many of us feel when it comes to following Jesus in daily life.

We’re a little unclear about what exactly we’re supposed to do.

Well, if I had to give you a one-sentence “job description” for a Christian, I’d point you to Colossians 3:17. It beautifully summarizes what it looks like to follow Jesus in everyday, ordinary life.

In that light, let’s explore our “job” for the day.

“Whatever you do”- On the surface, much of life seems unrelated to our Christian walk: answering emails, running errands, making dinner, and so on. The truth is, following Jesus is a full-time, 24/7 responsibility.

“Whatever you do” is an all-encompassing phrase that covers any and every activity, regardless of circumstances, time, or place. Nothing we do should be off-limits to Jesus’ influence. Plus, adopting a “whatever” mindset breaks down the false barriers we create between the sacred and the secular, between Sunday and Monday. As author John Ortberg states, “God doesn’t want your ‘spiritual’ life. He wants your life.” Or to say it another way, God wants your “whatever.” 

“In Word or in deed”- “Whatever” is not just about what we do; it’s also about what we say. We speak thousands of words each day, and each one “has the power of life and death” (Proverbs 18:21). Words can build up or tear down, heal or hurt, unite or divide. We must not only watch what we say, but how we say it.

While our actions speak loudly, our words can serve as a powerful witness for Christ as we share who He is and what He’s done to save us.

“Do it all in the name”- Much like an employee’s actions reflect on their employer, our actions reflect on our King. Here’s a simple rule: if it honors Jesus, we do it. If it contradicts His word or damages His reputation in any way, we don’t do it. No matter where we go, what we’re doing, or when we’re doing it, we are representing Jesus.

“Giving Thanks”- Finally, no job description is complete without mentioning our attitude in the workplace. Above all, Christians should have attitudes of gratitude. A thankful heart, even in tough seasons, shows others that following Jesus isn’t a duty but a delight—our joy, not our “job.”  

None of us will do this “job” perfectly. Every day, we’ll mess up, say the wrong things, and fall short more often than we’d like. But when we do, we can turn back to the grace and forgiveness found in Jesus and start fresh. 

So, today, whatever you do, wherever you go, ask the Lord to help you live out Colossians 3:17 and show the world Who you ‘work’ for.

DIG DEEPER
Listen to the radio spot, “Work to the Glory of God“