Putting on the whole armour of God (Ephesians 6 vs 11) as a Christian particularly in the market place (be it in business or career) shields us from the fiery darts (wrong accusations , evil powers and authorities, wickedness etc) flying around the space.
The market place is where your faith, righteousness/integrity, truth, the usage of God’s Word and shield of faith will be put to test. In Job’s case, even his friends and associates couldn’t vouch for him and as such spoke ill of him. They had concluded that Job deserved what he got – how quick we are to passing judgement even in Truth.
In the market place, it is dog eat dog as the world is not fair and everyone is trying to have the larger part of the cake. I recall a project I embarked on, where my integrity and faith were put to test. The supplies had a shortfall and I didn’t communicate that to the principal on time, simply because I was trying to resolve the issue and get a better result. The principal in this case took offense and thought I was playing smart, because a third party had confirmed the shortfall to her first. Although, I admit to not communicating with the principal on time, I still went ahead to do the right thing and paid the price irrespective, just to maintain my integrity.
You see, the cost of building and maintaining one’s integrity is very pricey and you’ll have to pay it, if you are genuinely in tune with your walk with God,. Don’t be deceived, one of the characteristics of God is Truth and it stands anywhere and everywhere as Truth no matter the litmus test that is applied on it. Although, there were suggestions from different quarters not to pay for or replace the shortfall, I ignored them all and paid the cost of the shortfall, even though it ate deep into my profit margin. Still yet, I was glad deep inside of me that I had done the right thing.
Submitting oneself to God’s Word and ways pays off in the long run. Job 12 vs 23b says He enlarges nations and guides them. God’s word is true ALWAYS and It is only when we trust and accept Him as our SOURCE that we are able to overcome any financial, moral or spiritual integrity test and not be unnecessarily anxious or fretful.
Shalom 🕊️
Bimpe Lawal
I really love this message it’s helps reflects the high stakes of the professional world, and how it serves as a ultimate testing ground for one’s character and spiritual values
Yes, I agree with you, the professional world is indeed a testing stage.