Bringing God To Work - The One Year Daily Acts of Kindness Devotional

Bringing God to Work

The Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness.

Galatians 5:22

My husband runs the human resources department at a company in our community. He has been there for a little less than two years, and he spent the first several months in his new position inviting people out to lunch. Managers, supervisors, team leads—every week he was buying coworkers lunch all around town. Yes, you read that correctly. My husband was not only inviting coworkers out to lunch, he was buying every one of them lunch. Upon seeing our credit card statement those first few months, I quietly swallowed my objections, knowing that he was wisely and intentionally investing in developing relationships and that this up-front cost would yield dividends later.

He periodically picks up coffee and donuts for his staff, drives hours to attend funerals for coworkers’ parents, quietly pulls someone aside to share an insight that will allow that person to shine in the spotlight. His job often has him working hard behind the scenes to smooth out misunderstandings, bolster someone’s confidence, or help individuals navigate conflict in a healthy manner that pushes the company forward rather than creating internal weaknesses.

My husband is prayerful in his approach to difficult situations, and while he wouldn’t necessarily shout it from the rooftop, he intentionally practices the fruits of the Spirit within his workplace as a part of the essential functions of his job. He is a peacemaker and joy-bringer, and he works to encourage attitudes of patience and kindness in those who are leading others.

This approach to human resources has paid off. Because he has proven himself trustworthy and a team player, he is able to have quiet, difficult conversations with integrity and trust. His actions stem from his heart and his faith, whether or not others always recognize it. As he practices patience and kindness, and as he strives to create a work community filled with love and peace, he is quietly bringing God to work with him every single day.

—Julie

— Today’s Act of Kindness —

Start bringing God to work or school with you through the fruits of the Spirit.