In the first chapter of the opening book of the Bible, God repeatedly states that we as humans are made in His image,
“Then God said, “Let us make man in our image, after our likeness. And let them have dominion over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the heavens and over the live-stock and over all the earth and over every creeping thing that creeps on the earth. So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them.” (Genesis 1:26-27, ESV)
What should it look like to bear the image of God in the paid workforce? That was the very question a panel of diversely employed women recently contemplated at our CRBC Women’s Image Bearer Retreat. With the help of panelists Suzy Biggs (teacher, mentor), Rachel Nichols (realtor), Tiffany Worley (nurse), and myself (sales leadership), we looked at how we can represent Him through loving and serving, as well as through boldly living faithfully in a changing professional culture. We had a wonderful time learning from each other! I’ll recap here some of the most meaningful insights that came out of our time together.
Question #1 - What does it uniquely look like for you to bear the Image of God in your workplace?
First and foremost, we must take time to see our coworkers as individuals lovingly created in God’s image. Through this, we understand that each person has unique gifts and strengths to be utilized and appreciated in a professional setting.
In a fast-paced and self-promoting professional culture, tactfully pausing to see and know others doesn’t only represent Jesus, it can also lead to more insight on how to specifically encourage them in the future.
We have influence. We spend hours multiple days a week, every week, with co-workers. Be sure in all things to promote God through your good actions & words. Be there with encouragement and genuine care. In time, they will come to know you as a true Christian and that will have a huge influence on how they view Christianity.
Our words are powerful. We can do the hard work of choosing honest but kind words. We can represent Jesus by being quick to offer praise where it is earned, and encouragement along with correction where it’s needed.
Question #2 - Why is this important?
We can have a significant influence on how others view Christianity.
Christian leaders are responsible for building organizational practices that promote human flourishing. Recent studies show that a manager can have more impact on mental health than a therapist or doctor and is equal to the impact of a partner.
As God's image-bearers, we are all equal. We are equal in dignity and worth, and we are also fallen equally (Romans 3:23). If God is of great and inestimable worth, then human beings made in his image must be of immense value too.
We are reminded in scripture that we are to interact with others in a way that shows the love of Christ. “Make the most of every opportunity,” Paul reminds us, “let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt” (Colossians 4:5-6).
Question #3 -What are some practical actions we can take to represent God in the paid workforce?
Instead of getting defensive or quick to blame others, we can represent Jesus by remaining gracious, calm, and kind in our interactions, even when we’re having hard conversations. “The words of the reckless pierce like swords, but the tongue of the wise brings healing” (Proverbs 12:18).
Always be ready to share your love of Christ. Being around your co-workers as much as you are gives you the ability to speak about God and how he has changed you. "But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect" (1 Peter 3:15).
You must show Christian love to your co-workers. Be compassionate to your co-workers when you know they are dealing with things outside of work. Don't complain when you have to explain something for the third time. Show grace to your co-workers and let them see the love of God in you. "Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love" (John 4:8, NIV).
Work with Integrity. Integrity connotes a deep commitment to do the right thing for the right reason, regardless of the circumstances. Integrity includes a sense of honesty, dependability, and consistency of character.
Question #4- How do you overcome professional (if applicable) risks to do this?
Stand strong on what the Word of God teaches. We know that our obedience to God is to be absolute. We obey mankind only insofar as their commands do not violate God’s Word.
“I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33)
“Yet if anyone suffers as a Christian, let him not be ashamed, but let him glorify God in that name.” (1 Peter 4:16)
Christians persevere in the face of opposition by actively remembering God and actively relying upon him. The very Spirit who raised Jesus Christ from the dead is near us when we call and supplies us with strength and grace. As Peter reminds us, God is pleased with us when we suffer for doing good “for this is a gracious thing in the sight of God” (1 Peter 2:20).
Remember that we are working for the glory of God. “Whatever you do, work at it with all of your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men” (Colossians 3:23).
Pray.
“Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you” (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18).
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:6-7).
Being made in God’s image means that we must reflect Him and see those we work with as also being made in His image. This is our privilege and responsibility!
Meet the Author!
Ashley Otteson and her husband Garrett are blessed beyond measure to have found community at CRBC. Garrett serves on the Deacon Board and they have lead a Home Group for 5+ years, affectionately named “SundaysCool”. They’ve also spent time serving on the Welcome Team and Tech Team.
Professionally, Ashley is a Sales Leader for a large Global Technology Company where she has been for 15 years. She enjoys watching sports, eating delicious food, deep conversation, and living no further than a 7-minute drive from her sisters and parents.