As he wrestles with this critical issue he has several visitors who have been told of Mr. Wilberforce's dilemma. These avid abolitionists know of Mr. Wilberforce's political passion and skill, especially in the battle against slavery.
"We understand that you are having difficulty deciding whether to do the work of God or the work of a political activist" one of them shares with him. The woman in the group then drives home the point, "We humbly suggest you can do both."
Many Christians believe value in God's eyes comes only from entering "full time ministry." This is such a tragedy. God has made each of us with unique talents and skills. When we mistakenly believe that only missionaries or pastors have a high calling, we miss God's best for our life and we underutilize the gifts we have been given.
The Apostle Paul in 1 Corinthians 7:17 wrote, "Only let each person lead the life that the Lord has assigned to him, and to which God has called him. This is my rule in all the churches."
Imagine a world with all Christians serving only as pastors and missionaries. Who would reach the people in the workplaces of the world? Who would provide the food, shelter, clothing, etc. that we need to carry out God's plan? Who would start businesses or lead our government? It would be disastrous, but worse yet it isn't God's plan.
If you are questioning whether or not you should leave your current job to go into vocational ministry, you should remember that we are all called to be in ministry regardless of where we work. Consider the sage advice of Wilberforce's friends: you can do both.
A WORK PRAYER
Lord, thank You for showing me that I am in full time ministry regardless of my vocation. Please guide me as I work, so that my work may be a ministry for Your Kingdom. Amen.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS (for small groups and individuals)
1. In what ways can you be in full time ministry at your work?
2. Do you consider your workplace a mission field? Why or why not?
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This WorkLife Lesson was written by Rick Boxx, founder and President of Integrity Resource Center, a biblically based resource center for workplace leaders. Used with permission. All rights reserved. IntegrityResource.org. Content edited and distributed by HisChurchatWork.org for non-profit educational purposes.
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