Finding a Better Way

The job offered was very appealing to Gail. She would be heading a housing institute whose revenues were declining and be able to make a positive impact. Gail had great confidence that with her skills and experience she would be able to tackle the challenge. The ability to bring about constructive change appealed to her. The title and the salary were very attractive. Best of all, it seemed it would fit nicely with her desire to live her faith in the marketplace.

“Martha, Martha,” the Lord answered, “You are worried and upset about many things, but few things are needed – or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.” Luke 10: 41-42

Gail was sure God wanted her to take the job. It seemed to be custom-made for her and she for it. It was her first reaction and she didn’t explore it much further. Gail did not spend much time discerning her inclinations – the positives seemed self-evident. Unlike Mary, Gail did not sit quietly in the Lord’s presence.

In hindsight, she saw it was her selfish desire to be in charge and make a difference that was driving her. Adding that to the lack of spiritual discernment it resulted in disastrous outcomes. As she continued to push her own agenda, she became, like Martha, increasingly worried and upset. Obsessed with net income results, she fostered a culture that emphasized financial performance at the expense of relationships. The institute nearly collapsed, her agreement ended, and she joined the ranks of the unemployed in the middle of the Great Recession. Things did not look bright.

“We know that all things work together for good for those who love God, who are called according to his purpose.” Romans 8:28

It brought her to her knees. She wanted to choose better. She prayed and sought God’s will. Her transformation was underway.

Being put back to work didn’t take long; she received a call from the CEO of a former employer. He asked Gail to return to her previous job as head of the commercial financial group. The group had been downsized during the recession from thirteen people to two. Gail was being called to rebuild it. She was committed to not make the same mistake again.

Once she discerned it was God’s will, Gail chose to continue in the role of Mary, being careful to replenish the group with humble, qualified individuals. The group’s revenue doubled. By first seeking the Father’s will in her decisions, Gail began to see the group flourish together and his kingdom restored in her workplace.

“Those who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength, they shall mount up with wings like eagles they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not be faint.” Isaiah 40:31

We do God’s will out of love for the Father and seek his will in all life’s choices, great and small. This includes our workplaces. It is this relationship and friendship with his Father that Jesus has brought us fully into.

Discerning God’s will is about choosing between two good choices and looking for the greater good. It is viewed in light of our greater vocation as servants of God serving him and one another.

It is important we understand these decisions are being made on the battlefield of two kingdoms. The world, the flesh and the devil are competing with God’s will on the battlefield of choices. Scripture outlines the driving motives that support the world and can influence our choices. In spite for her strong faith, Gail was easily influenced by position, money and influence.

Seeking God’s will is to keep in step with his Spirit within us. Gail discovered that seeking God’s will required humility, obedience, and courage. Jesus humbly surrendered every aspect of his life and conduct to the Father’s will.

We must discern what is from God, what is from the world and what is from our own sinful nature. Three critical elements are involved. First, prayer that builds a relationship with God so we can best recognize his voice. Secondly, being familiar with the word of God so we can have the mind of Christ in our decisions. And, finally, to be alert to how God’s will is being revealed in the circumstances of our lives. Mature, experienced, and loving believers are key to help us be objective.

Gail’s shortcoming wasn’t a failure. It was a lesson she learned to more deliberately seek and fulfill God’s will in her daily choices. As she did, she was transformed and the world she influenced was transformed as well.