Devotions/YouVersion – Called To Work

62. Love Your Coworkers – Conflict with Coworkers

December 1, 2025

Scripture Reading: Proverbs 20:3; 20:19; 26:20-21; Matthew 18:15-16

If God intends us to work in helpful relationships with others, where do we go wrong? According the book of Proverbs, a lot of strife creeps into our working relationships when we talk about coworkers behind their backs.

Work often brings together people with different skills from different cultural backgrounds. This is good for building a diverse team able to handle many types of challenges. But it often also leads to conflict. How we deal with workplace conflict determines whether we work in a loving environment or an energy-sapping one.

When we have a conflict with a coworker we are often tempted to unburden ourselves on some other friendly ear. But many verses in the bible caution against such talk. While we think it will make us feel better, talking maliciously about a coworker often prolongs a fight rather than resolves it.

Gossip casts other people in a questionable light by raising doubts about their integrity. The gossiper elevates his or her own status at the expense of others who are not present to speak for themselves. This casts a shadow over anyone else in the office who might as a result of the gossip feel guarded and suspicious. Instead of ending a conflict, gossip amplifies it.

A better way of dealing with workplace conflict is laid out in Matthew 18:15-16. If you have an issue with one of your coworkers, it is best to talk it over in person when the two of you are alone. This gives you both a chance to clarify your positions and clear up misunderstandings.

If you have not solved the conflict after a one-on-one chat, hold a small meeting with one or two additional people. Other coworkers may have different insights into the conflict and useful perspectives on ways to solve it.

Conflict occurs in most coworker relationships. It takes courage and humility to deal with conflict head on. Yet, when you follow the advice of scripture, you create a better environment where everyone is happy to work.

Prayer: God, you see the conflict in my workplace. Give me strength to heal my work relationships. Guard my tongue against gossip and slander. I put my trust in you.

Further Exploration: If you want to read more about the process of conflict resolution, read the Theology of Work Commentary on Matthew 18 .

Author: Theology of Work Project

Theology of Work Project Online Materials by Theology of Work Project, Inc. is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License. Based on a work at www.theologyofwork.org

You are free to share (to copy, distribute and transmit the work), and remix (to adapt the work) for non-commercial use only, under the condition that you must attribute the work to the Theology of Work Project, Inc., but not in any way that suggests that it endorses you or your use of the work.

Unless otherwise noted, the Scripture quotations contained herein are from the New Revised Standard Version Bible, Copyright © 1989, Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the U.S.A., and are used by permission. All rights reserved.

61. Love Your Coworkers – God Created Coworkers

November 24, 2025

Scripture Reading: Genesis 2:15-18

Our study starts with the first two human co-workers, Adam and Eve. God put Adam in the garden of Eden with a job: to till the garden and keep it productive. But soon God saw that working alone was not good for Adam. So God made another person to be Adam’s helper and partner.

The phrase in Hebrew that is used to describe the first woman is ezer k’negdo. Ezer is used in the Old Testament to mean one who helps, not as an apprentice or assistant, but as a competent ally. The word ezer is also used to describe God as our help, as in Exodus 18:4 “The God of my father was my help, and delivered me from the sword of Pharaoh.”

The word k’negdo means “comparable to him” or “suitable to him.” Put together, the phrase indicates that Eve was created with comparable or complementary gifts to Adam, with the purpose of joining Adam in the work God had asked him to do.

Adam and Eve had the distinction of being the first couple too, but before that they were the first human coworkers. What lesson can we take from their story for our modern (nonromantic) working relationships?

One way that we can love our coworkers is by being an ezer k’negdo at work. A helper delivers others from distress. Is there a coworker struggling with a new task who could use your expertise? The second half of the phrase implies that God intended his first human coworkers to share the load with each other.

Being an ezer k’negdo to your coworkers means approaching work-related problems with a shared vision. This means forgetting phrases such as “that’s not in my job description” and partnering with your coworkers to achieve a shared vision.

Prayer: Lord help me love my coworkers today, as you originally designed in creation. Let me be a helper to those I work with, and bless them to be helpers to me.

Further Exploration: To learn more about God’s intention for relationships as shown in creation, see the Theology of Work Commentary on Genesis

Author: Theology of Work Project

Theology of Work Project Online Materials by Theology of Work Project, Inc. is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License. Based on a work at www.theologyofwork.org

You are free to share (to copy, distribute and transmit the work), and remix (to adapt the work) for non-commercial use only, under the condition that you must attribute the work to the Theology of Work Project, Inc., but not in any way that suggests that it endorses you or your use of the work.

Unless otherwise noted, the Scripture quotations contained herein are from the New Revised Standard Version Bible, Copyright © 1989, Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the U.S.A., and are used by permission. All rights reserved.

60. Conflict at Work – Be Eager to Do What is Right

November 17, 2025

Scripture Reading: Philippians 6:7, Isaiah 16:5

The book of Isaiah describes God’s servant as “eager to do what is right.” The Hebrew reads, more literally, “He will . . . be quick [to do] righteousness.” When we remember that righteousness means right relationships, we recognize that Jesus calls us to prioritize addressing broken or strained relationships. It’s not easy, and often we’d rather put off the hard work and vulnerability of seeking to mend our relationships.

For example, when our urge is to ignore or hide conflict with others at work, we must instead acknowledge the conflict and talk with the people involved (not gossip with others). When we would rather keep it to ourselves, we should ask wise people for help in getting started (in humility, not in hopes of gaining an upper hand). When we would rather build a case against our rival, we should instead build a case for them, or at least acknowledge whatever their good points are. If we have done wrong, we should admit it and ask for forgiveness. When we have been wronged, we should forgive. And when we think we don’t have the energy to engage the other person, but would rather just write off the relationship, we must let God’s power and patience substitute for our own.

In this we seek to imitate our Lord, who “emptied himself” of personal agendas and so received the power of God to live out God’s will in the world. If we do these things, then our conflict can be resolved in terms of what the true issues are, rather than our projections, fears and resentments. Usually this leads to a restored working relationship and mutual respect, if not friendship. Even in the unusual cases where no reconciliation is possible, we can expect a surprising “peace of God, which surpasses all understanding.” It is a sign that even a broken relationship is not beyond the hope of God’s goodness.

Prayer: Gracious Lord, it’s hard sometimes to initiate reconciliation. I don’t like conflict; I often would rather avoid and deny than be quick to do what’s right. Forgive me when I delay doing the right thing. Help me be eager to do what is right and quick to obey. Amen.

Further Exploration: We hope this plan encouraged you. You can find more plans from the Theology of Work Project at www.theologyofwork.org/devotions

Author: Theology of Work Project

Theology of Work Project Online Materials by Theology of Work Project, Inc. is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License. Based on a work at www.theologyofwork.org

You are free to share (to copy, distribute and transmit the work), and remix (to adapt the work) for non-commercial use only, under the condition that you must attribute the work to the Theology of Work Project, Inc., but not in any way that suggests that it endorses you or your use of the work.

Unless otherwise noted, the Scripture quotations contained herein are from the New Revised Standard Version Bible, Copyright © 1989, Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the U.S.A., and are used by permission. All rights reserved.

59. Conflict at Work – Coming to a Solution

November 10, 2025

Scripture Reading: Acts 6:1-5, 11:2-18

Some workplace conflict stems from different points of view about how to handle a matter or decision. This can actually be a good thing if it causes us to see things from a new perspective. None of us has perfect knowledge, unlimited wisdom and totally pure motives. So we benefit from coming up against people who see things differently, if we are willing to work creatively together to resolve our differences. We have a few examples of this type of conflict in today’s verses, from the book of Acts.

A helpful pattern emerges from the book of Acts that is useful for work conflicts:

1. Listen Carefully: Listen carefully to the concerns and perspectives of your co-workers. Who are the stakeholders that will be affected by your decisions? How can you best serve all parties?

2. Assess Honestly: Assess the strengths and weaknesses of various courses of action and concerns. They have to be acknowledged to be addressed.

3. Discard Prejudices: Be willing to change old attitudes and prejudices in light of new information.

4. Think Creatively: Create a new solution together.

Prayer: Jesus, you say in your word that if we lack wisdom, especially in the midst of our trials, we can ask you, and you will give generously. I ask for the patience and humility necessary to truly listen and submit to you. I pray for the wisdom to come to a solution. Amen.

Author: Theology of Work Project

Theology of Work Project Online Materials by Theology of Work Project, Inc. is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License. Based on a work at www.theologyofwork.org

You are free to share (to copy, distribute and transmit the work), and remix (to adapt the work) for non-commercial use only, under the condition that you must attribute the work to the Theology of Work Project, Inc., but not in any way that suggests that it endorses you or your use of the work.

Unless otherwise noted, the Scripture quotations contained herein are from the New Revised Standard Version Bible, Copyright © 1989, Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the U.S.A., and are used by permission. All rights reserved.

58. Conflict at Work – Be Spiritually Grounded

November 3, 2025

Scripture Reading: Ephesians 6:10-18

The book of Ephesians reminds us that “our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.” In other words, we live in a fallen world, and there are factors beyond our control that contribute to the difficulties we face at work. We shouldn’t expect even the best workplace to be perfect. But we should expect the Spirit of God to be with us all the time.

In response to workplace struggles, Ephesians tells us to put on truth, righteousness, peace and faith. We are to remind ourselves of our salvation and gird ourselves with the word of God. We are to “pray in the Spirit with all kinds of prayers and requests.”

This means that we can always trust God to take care of us, so that we don’t need to be tempted to engage in unethical behavior, slander and anger. The powers of evil may indeed threaten, oppress or even cause us harm at work. But we don’t need to resort to dirty deeds to defend ourselves. Truth, right relationships, honest conflict resolution and faithfulness are the best ways for us, whether we are in good situations or bad. These are things we should request the Holy Spirit to give us.

This approach may not deliver overnight results. However, over time, we may find that we have more patience, fortitude, hope and love than we thought possible. And we know that Christ is victorious over every power of darkness and evil in the end.

Prayer: Dear Lord, I need your help when I experience darkness and evil at work. Help me to put on the armor of righteousness, peace, truth, faith, your Word and the joy of your salvation. Help me rely on your Spirit daily. I pray for the people who make my work difficult. Please bless them. I confess my own reluctance to love, and I admit that sometimes I’m the one who is difficult to work with. I pray for the ability to submit to you, knowing that you care for me. Amen

Author: Theology of Work Project

Theology of Work Project Online Materials by Theology of Work Project, Inc. is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License. Based on a work at www.theologyofwork.org

You are free to share (to copy, distribute and transmit the work), and remix (to adapt the work) for non-commercial use only, under the condition that you must attribute the work to the Theology of Work Project, Inc., but not in any way that suggests that it endorses you or your use of the work.

Unless otherwise noted, the Scripture quotations contained herein are from the New Revised Standard Version Bible, Copyright © 1989, Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the U.S.A., and are used by permission. All rights reserved.

57. Conflict at Work – Always Hope for the Best Outcome

October 27, 2025

Scripture Reading: Philippians 4:2-8, Colossians 3:12

In the book of Philippians, Paul asks two women, Euodia and Syntyche, to come to peace with each other. Stop nurturing resentment, he tells them, and think about what is “honorable, just, pure, pleasing, commendable, excellent and praiseworthy” in the other person.

God’s spirit empowers us to love others and to hope for the best, just as we ourselves are embraced by the love and hope of God. Our natural reaction in conflict situations is often to assume the other person is hopelessly wrong—ignorant, stubborn, selfish, foolish. Why bother trying to restore our relationship—it will never work. But the love of God—for us and for them—gives us true hope that both they and we can change for the better.

It may help if we remember that many changeable factors contribute to the way people interact on any given day. The other person—or we—may have had a poor night’s sleep, a fight with a loved one, a financial setback or other life issues. We may have different ways of speaking or acting that give an incorrect impression. For example, a joke may come across the wrong way, or a word may be taken as an insult, even if it wasn’t meant that way. And we have different preferences for handling stress. Some like to have time alone to think, while others like to resolve things quickly and publicly.

The good news is that with God’s help there is hope. What seems like an intractable conflict today may become an opportunity for a deeper relationship tomorrow. Focus on the factors that may help move things forward, rather than impugning the other person’s motives. With prayer, we can ask God to help us be gentle and humble, see the good in others and let go of our anxieties.

Prayer: Jesus, help me to see those I am irritated with, hurt by or in conflict with, with the hope and love that you provide. May I be slow to anger. Instead of judging them, may I be a blessing to them. Amen.

Further Exploration: Click to read more from the Theology of Work Project about resolving conflict in Philippians.

Author: Theology of Work Project

Theology of Work Project Online Materials by Theology of Work Project, Inc. is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License. Based on a work at www.theologyofwork.org

You are free to share (to copy, distribute and transmit the work), and remix (to adapt the work) for non-commercial use only, under the condition that you must attribute the work to the Theology of Work Project, Inc., but not in any way that suggests that it endorses you or your use of the work.

Unless otherwise noted, the Scripture quotations contained herein are from the New Revised Standard Version Bible, Copyright © 1989, Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the U.S.A., and are used by permission. All rights reserved.

56. Conflict at Work – Be Quick to Listen

October 20, 2025

Scripture Reading: James 1:19-21

Christians need to listen well, both to people and to God. “Be quick to listen, slow to speak, slow to anger” (James 1:19). You listen, not as a technique to influence others, but as a way to let God’s word “rid yourselves of all sordidness and rank growth of wickedness” (James 1:21). Listening well to others removes our anger and arrogance. When others speak words that we do not welcome—words of disagreement, criticism or dismissal—it is easy to respond in anger, especially in high-pressure situations. But doing so usually makes our position worse and discredits our witness as Christ’s servants.

When approaching a co-worker about conflict, you must set aside your self-justification long enough to listen to what the other person has to say. This is very difficult! But it works. Your goal at first is not to come to agreement, but just to understand the other person’s point of view. Say something like, “I realize that this is coming between us, so I want to start by listening to how you see things.” Then listen without interrupting. Repeat back what the other person said without modifications or corrections. “I think you said…. Is that right?” You may have to try several times until you get it so the other person can respond, “Yes that is what I said.” Success!

Now ask the other person to listen to your perspective and repeat it back to you, just as you did for him or her. Repeat until the other person actually repeats what you said, without asking the person to agree with it.

Now you both understand the other person’s point of view. You may still disagree. Yet most of the time, the feeling of being heard and respected is so wonderful that both of you have a new energy and sense of working together. Now you can begin to find a solution to the conflict that you can both live with.

Prayer: Dear God, It is difficult to listen and not defend my own position. Help me approach conflict with meekness, humility and a heart that is willing to truly understand another’s perspective. Amen.

Further Exploration: Click to read more from the Theology of Work Project about listening in James 1.

Author: Theology of Work Project

Theology of Work Project Online Materials by Theology of Work Project, Inc. is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License. Based on a work at www.theologyofwork.org

You are free to share (to copy, distribute and transmit the work), and remix (to adapt the work) for non-commercial use only, under the condition that you must attribute the work to the Theology of Work Project, Inc., but not in any way that suggests that it endorses you or your use of the work.

Unless otherwise noted, the Scripture quotations contained herein are from the New Revised Standard Version Bible, Copyright © 1989, Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the U.S.A., and are used by permission. All rights reserved.

55. Conflict at Work – Go and Address the Person Directly

October 13, 2025

Scripture Reading: Matthew 18:15-17, Matthew 5:23

How do we restore broken relationships? In Matthew 18, Jesus gives us a template for dealing with someone who has wronged us. He does not say, “Get even!” or “Strike back!” or “Prove that you were right.” Instead, he lays out a process that begins with seeking one-on-one to be reconciled.

Even in the healthiest workplaces, conflicts arise. When they do, the only effective resolution is for those in conflict to engage each other directly, not to complain to others. Rather than play out a conflict in front of an audience, meet with the person privately.

In the age of electronic communication, Jesus’ approach to “go” directly to the other person is more important than ever. All it takes is a name or two in the “cc:” line or one press of the “reply all” button to turn an ordinary disagreement into an office feud. Even if two people could keep an email chain to themselves, the possibilities for misunderstanding are multiplied when an impersonal medium such as e-mail is used. Therefore, unless doing so would put you in danger, it is probably best to take Jesus’ advice literally, “Go and point out the fault when the two of you are alone.”

If you’ve been hurt, take the first step toward reconciliation, even though it may make you feel awkward or vulnerable. Likewise, if we believe we’ve hurt someone, Matthew 5:23 makes it clear that we should go and get right with him or her. Either way, it takes humility to be the first to say, “Hey, there’s something that’s been weighing on me. Can we talk?”

Sometimes conflicts aren’t resolved one-on-one. In that case Matthew 18:16 tells us to seek help from others with the appropriate skills and authority. This does not mean complaining to other people, but finding the right person(s) to help us resolve differences with the person we’re in conflict with.

Prayer：Jesus, your command to go and be reconciled is difficult. I ask for you to both strengthen me with your might and soften my heart to hear from your Spirit. Amen.

Further Exploration：Click to read more from the Theology of Work Project about conflict resolution in Matthew 18.

Author: Theology of Work Project

Theology of Work Project Online Materials by Theology of Work Project, Inc. is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License. Based on a work at www.theologyofwork.org

You are free to share (to copy, distribute and transmit the work), and remix (to adapt the work) for non-commercial use only, under the condition that you must attribute the work to the Theology of Work Project, Inc., but not in any way that suggests that it endorses you or your use of the work.

Unless otherwise noted, the Scripture quotations contained herein are from the New Revised Standard Version Bible, Copyright © 1989, Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the U.S.A., and are used by permission. All rights reserved.

54. Conflict at Work – The Value of Right Relationship

October 6, 2025

Scripture reading: Matthew 5:6, 5:9, 2 Corinthians 5:18

We all experience conflict at work. Sometimes workplace conflict makes us think that work is a hostile place for our Christian faith or values. But in reality, the Christian faith is superbly capable of helping us bring good results out of the conflict that inevitably arises at work. It’s as if Jesus has gone ahead of us into our workplaces, standing ready to bring reconciliation and transformation in the place we spend most of our waking hours.

It begins with Jesus’ words “Blessed are the peacemakers.” When we think of “peace” we tend to think only of stability, tranquility, the absence of conflict. But the Hebrew word for peace, shalom, means life flourishing in community. Shalom is far more than absence of war and conflict. It draws together ideas of justice and righteousness. Shalom is a thriving fullness of life as it ought to be: whole, healthy and balanced.

Peacemaking, therefore, means engaging in conflict in in ways that resolve underlying disagreements while actually strengthening our relationships. It means treating people with justice and respect, even while we’re in conflict with them. It definitely does not mean ignoring conflict. “Keeping the peace” by evading issues at the office can result in a false peace: difficult issues go undiscussed, arguments linger unsettled, the mission of the organization suffers. Working honestly with our co-workers through disappointment, misunderstandings and anger restores relationships.

Our faith helps us be open to working through conflict because Jesus is our model. God sent his only Son to reconcile us to himself by means of a cross. That’s how important God thinks it is to do the hard work of restoring relationships.

Prayer: Gracious God, thank you for the gift of peace I have with you through Christ. Through you may my relationships become more peaceful and healthy. As a recipient of your peace, I have been called to be a peacemaker. Help me to embrace this calling. Give me eyes to see, not only obvious conflict, but also that which lies beneath the surface. May I use every opportunity you put before me to work for genuine peace. Amen.

Further Exploration: Click to read more from the Theology of Work Project about the value of right relationships.

Author: Theology of Work Project

Theology of Work Project Online Materials by Theology of Work Project, Inc. is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License. Based on a work at www.theologyofwork.org

You are free to share (to copy, distribute and transmit the work), and remix (to adapt the work) for non-commercial use only, under the condition that you must attribute the work to the Theology of Work Project, Inc., but not in any way that suggests that it endorses you or your use of the work.

Unless otherwise noted, the Scripture quotations contained herein are from the New Revised Standard Version Bible, Copyright © 1989, Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the U.S.A., and are used by permission. All rights reserved.

53. Lead Through Prayer – Pray for Others

September 29, 2025

Scripture Reading: Matthew 6:7-13

Through your work you have the opportunity to impact many people. There are the people you see every day who are influenced by your attitude and your prayers. There are also people you don’t see on a daily basis who experience the benefits of your work. You have the chance to ignite all these people through short purposeful prayers throughout your workday.

Prayer in the workplace doesn’t need to be a big production. It could be a quick “please” or “thank you” whenever a new person crosses your path.

One customer service representative made a habit every time the phone rang of saying “Thank you, God, for the person I’m about to talk to.” The prayer didn’t take longer than one ring to say, and it changed the way this worker approached the phone call. As a result, whoever was calling left the interaction feeling blessed.

Jesus said, “When you are praying, do not heap up empty phrases as the Gentiles do; for they think that they will be heard because of their many words” (Matthew 6:7). You don’t need to devote hours of time to prayer in order to bring God into your workday. Quick prayers are enough.

Martin Luther said that prayer should be “brief, frequent, and intense.” Whoever crosses your path today, whether it’s a customer, a coworker, or the person who empties your trash can, take a moment to pray for them. Expect God to do the rest.

Prayer: God, be present in my work today. Lead me through prayer, and teach me how to lead others. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Further Exploration: If you enjoyed this plan, find more plans from the Theology of Work Project at www.theologyofwork.org/devotions

Author: Theology of Work Project

Theology of Work Project Online Materials by Theology of Work Project, Inc. is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License. Based on a work at www.theologyofwork.org

You are free to share (to copy, distribute and transmit the work), and remix (to adapt the work) for non-commercial use only, under the condition that you must attribute the work to the Theology of Work Project, Inc., but not in any way that suggests that it endorses you or your use of the work.

Unless otherwise noted, the Scripture quotations contained herein are from the New Revised Standard Version Bible, Copyright © 1989, Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the U.S.A., and are used by permission. All rights reserved.

Called To Work

Category: Devotions/YouVersion

62. Love Your Coworkers – Conflict with Coworkers

61. Love Your Coworkers – God Created Coworkers

60. Conflict at Work – Be Eager to Do What is Right

59. Conflict at Work – Coming to a Solution

58. Conflict at Work – Be Spiritually Grounded

57. Conflict at Work – Always Hope for the Best Outcome

56. Conflict at Work – Be Quick to Listen

55. Conflict at Work – Go and Address the Person Directly

54. Conflict at Work – The Value of Right Relationship

53. Lead Through Prayer – Pray for Others

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