God often calls the least likely to do great things. He doesn’t call the majority of His workers from those whom the world considers great or wise. Some examples of those “ordinary” people include David, Ruth and Gideon, just to name of few. Conversely, we are usually quick to identify and pick those who by worldly standards are wise, powerful, strong, smart, best looking and most influential…because we judge with our eyes and our worldly understanding! People judge by outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart (I Samuel 16:7). Psalm 78:70-72 records that God picked his servant David, calling him from the sheep pens. He took David from tending the ewes and lambs and made him shepherd of Jacob’s descendants – God’s own people, Israel. He cared for them with a true heart and led them with skillful hands. These final verses in chapter 78 highlight several key characteristics of David’s life that were essential to God’s calling and workplace assignment.
David was young, inexperienced and to most, the least likely to be used by God. He was keeper of the sheep; a simple shepherd boy with a modest job. But it didn’t matter to God because David possessed four qualities that God could use greatly. These qualities should not be unique to David only but applicable to every believer in the workplace today. First, as a shepherd, it was David’s job to keep up with the flock and God was calling David to be a shepherd for His people. Every believer has a calling…we are called by God to fulfill His purposes through our vocations, i.e. where we work. Second, David possessed a servant’s heart. God calls those who are willing to serve others. Our service begins with humility and compassion. Third, David possessed integrity of heart. He was a man who would lead with uncompromising character and integrity. Integrity is a priority for workplace believers. Finally, David guided them with skillful hands. God gifted David with skills to fulfill his calling. “Skillful hands” could be wisdom, influence and/or leadership. God always provides what we need to complete the work He’s called us to.
There you have it…four essentials for workplace ministry. I wonder…do you recognize those traits in yourself? Do you see your vocation as your calling? Have you acknowledged your “skillful hands” and do you use them for God’s purposes? Are you a man/woman with great humility and integrity of heart, willing to serve those around you? God knows your heart and wants to use you where you work. Your workplace challenge is to ensure these qualities are part of your life and workplace. Make today count for His Glory.