Scripture Reading: Philippians 4:2-9
People were created to live and work in community with one another – in other words, with other people. Different perspectives improve the product of your work, but differences can also be a source of conflict.
The letter to the Philippians gives this advice to coworkers in conflict with one another:
“Do not worry about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God… whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is pleasing, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence and if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things” (Philippians 4:6–8).
If you’re stuck for a way to pray for your coworkers, thank God for anything that is honorable, just, pure, pleasing, commendable, excellent, or praiseworthy in them (Philippians 4:7). It may take a while to come up with a list, but it’s worth the effort. Focusing on what’s positive in someone else changes your heart and allows God to work in your working relationship.
God promises that his peace “which surpasses all understanding” (Philippians 4:7) will come into your heart and mind when you pray for the people around you. You can start experiencing that peace by seeing the good in the people you see every day. This simple prayer could ignite a whole new level of excellence in the work that you produce individually and together.
Prayer: God, bless my coworkers today. Help me see what is honorable, pure, and praiseworthy in them. Thank you for the people I work with. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Further Exploration: Read more about Philippians 4:2-9 in the Theology of Work Bible Commentary.
Author: Theology of Work Project
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