Finding God's Purpose in Your Career

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How do we navigate that place where faith and work intersect? 

This is something many of us struggle with, so let's dive in. 

First off - I like to start with why things are important. So why is it so important to align our faith with our work? Can't we just be super work-focused at work, and faith-focused when we're off the clock? 

Well, not exactly. 

Our careers take up a significant portion of our lives. I mean, think about it. 

In 7 days, the average American works 40 hours/ week. 

We're supposed to sleep 8 hours a day, right? So 56 hours for that. 

With 168 hours a week (minus) time we are asleep: We have approximately 112 hours of time per week. If 40 are spent at work, that leaves us with 72 hours. 

Meaning, we spend about 35% of our lives at work. 

That's a significant amount of time. That's a huge influence on who we are, and a large percentage of the opportunities we have to impact others. Let's not underestimate the importance of what we do for work. 

Given that information.. How important is it to you that you find meaning and purpose in what you do? It can be easy to look at our day-to-day "job" as just that, a job, and nothing more. But do we think God expects us to throw away 35% of our lives on something that doesn't even matter? 

That doesn't mean you have to be a pastor or a missionary. But if we can find meaning and purpose in what we do, we can experience a deeper sense of fulfillment and can make more of a positive impact on the world around us. 

If our work can act as an extension of our faith, we can effectively serve others, contribute to society, and glorify God through our actions. 

We may be there to earn a paycheck at the end of the day, but it's about more than that. It's about us using our talents and our abilities or knowledge to make a difference in the lives of others. 

Second -- Let's talk about how we can seek God's guidance in finding our purpose. Prayer is a powerful tool that allows us to communicate with Him and enhance our relationships with Him. Remember to take time out of each and every day to pray for guidance and ask God to reveal His plan for your career. Tell Him your desires, fears, and uncertainties. Remember that His timing is perfect, and He will guide you in the right direction. Be patient.

His timing > Our timing

 Remember this even if His timing isn't quite lining up with our own expectations. 

Third -- Each of us are uniquely gifted and have passions that align with God's purpose for our lives.

("...I am fearfully and wonderfully made..."!! Psalm 139:14)

Spend some time reflecting on your talents, skills, and interests. What brings you joy? What are you great at? These clues can help you uncover the path God designed for you. Consider your past experiences, good and bad, personal and professional. 

When did you feel most fulfilled and alive? When did you feel closest to God?

Seek out opportunities to use your gifts, whether that's through volunteering, mentoring, a career path, or in your home. 

Where your passions and God's purpose intersect...that's where you need to lean in.

Fourth--- What are your opportunities for growth?

Sometimes God's purpose for our careers may not be immediately clear. Maybe we aren't ready for the "big reveal". Maybe we have further development or humbling to experience before we reach that understanding. Embrace every opportunity you have to get closer to this intersection. God works in ways that are far greater than our understanding, and any experience could be meant to shape and prepare you for your future. 

At all times, remain open to learning and growing. Each job, project, or challenge presents another opportunity for development. Embrace new skills, expand your knowledge, and cultivate a growth mindset. Trust that God is using these experiences to equip you for His greater purpose. 

Lastly -- Let's talk about living out your faith at work. Our careers provide a unique platform to be a light to those around us. No matter what you do for work!!

Demonstrate integrity, kindness, and compassion in all your interactions. Treat your colleagues, clients, and superiors with respect and love. Seek opportunities to share your faith when appropriate, but remember that actions often speak louder than words. Let your work ethic, humility, and servant-heartedness be a reflection of your faith.

Be a source of encouragement and support to your coworkers, offering a listening ear, a helping hand, or a word of encouragement when needed. 

To summarize: 

How to find God's purpose in your career:

1. Understand why it's important

2. Seek God's guidance in finding your purpose

3. Reflect on your gifts and passions to discover how they align with God's plan

4. Find your opportunities for growth

5. Live out your faith at work

I hope you're feeling inspired to seek God's purpose in your career and navigate the intersection of faith and work. 

Finding your purpose is a journey in and of itself, so be patient. 

Trust in God's plan, and He will guide you through. 

Blessings,

Katy