4 Essential Business Practices to Turn Your W.O.R.K. into Worship

10/18/2012

“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.” ~ Colossians 3:23

This blog is a follow up to one I wrote a few weeks ago, "Your W.O.R.K. is Worship", that got a lot of hits. I truly believe God wants us to demonstrate worship to Him through the work we do everyday as entrepreneurs. We must realize, though, that true worship is based on our lifestyles and work-styles. More than just singing slow songs in church, how we work is a key indicator of the authenticity of our worship.

Here are four key essential business practices to turn your W.O.R.K. into real worship:

1) Seize Your Assignment

Biblical examples: Peter, James, John (left fishing business to follow Jesus)

“…Then Jesus said to Simon, “Don’t be afraid; from now on you will catch men. So they pulled their boats up on shore, left everything and followed him.” ~ Luke 5:10-11

"Yet preaching the Good News is not something I can boast about. I am compelled by God to do it. How terrible for me if I didn't preach the Good News!" ~ 1 Corinthians 9:16

God wants to use those who are enthusiastic about being used by Him for His purposes. As Kingdom entrepreneurs we must realize that we are supposed to be following God's agenda and not our own. Our businesses and our lives belong to Him so we are at His beck and call to use our businesses as ministry platforms as the Holy Spirit directs us.

Apostle Paul teaches us that the ministry of reconciliation belongs to every Christian. Therefore, your purpose/calling/mission in the marketplace is tied to the ministry of reconciliation. Take ownership of your calling and take action. When you actively and intentionally seek the Kingdom through your business, you can expect that great rewards are waiting for you.

(MORE: Passion @ Work Career Development Programs)

2) Submit to Authority

Biblical example: David (continually submitted to a king who wanted to kill him)

“Servants, be obedient to them that are your masters according to the flesh, with fear and trembling, in singleness of your heart, as to Christ.” ~ Ephesians 6:5

“Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. Consequently, he who rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves.” ~ Romans 13:1-2

Humility is the number one characteristic needed for a godly leader. Even as entrepreneurs we must submit to those in authority, i.e. laws, government, board of directors, business partners, and other stakeholders. A meek attitude is required for God to promote you in the Kingdom and in the marketplace. God wants to use you through your business in a great way, but you must have your heart and mind in the right place as it relates to how you deal with authority. Also, how you deal with conflict and persecution is a great indicator of your level of humility.

3) Serve with Excellence

Biblical example: Daniel (strategic advisor to four kings)

“Do you see a man skilled in his work? He will serve before kings; he will not serve before obscure men.” ~ Proverbs 22:29

“His master replied, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness!’” ~ Matthew 5:14-30

Excellence is not something you do, it's who you are. Identify and maximize your talents, abilities, gifts, and skills in your business. Find your lane and flourish. Become the expert in your niche. Get better when nobody's watching. Become the best in the world at your craft. Be the go to expertise when people need your type of resource.

When you have this kind of approach to your business, you are demonstrating deep appreciation to God for the talents and opportunities He gave to you to succeed in business. This is truly worship in action.

(MORE: Passion @ Work Leadership Development Programs)

4) Solve Problems

Biblical example: Joseph (promoted to second in command in Egypt because of his God-idea to thrive in a famine)

“I wisdom dwell with prudence, and find out knowledge of witty inventions.” ~ Proverbs 8:12

“A man's gift makes room for him and brings him before great men.” ~ Proverbs 18:16

Your Kingdom assignment in the marketplace goes beyond what’s on your job description. One reason you were called to the marketplace is to solve problems with witty inventions that make God look good. The more problems you solve the brighter light for God you become. Problem solvers create value, are always in demand, and never go out of style. Profitable entrepreneurs are problem solvers. Wealth creating entrepreneurs are those who are able to keep solving problems.

God wants your business to bring Him glory. So make sure you worship while you work!

What do you do to turn your W.O.R.K. into worship? Leave your comments below...

(MORE: Passion @ Work Career Development Programs)