Who do you think you are?

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For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.

- Ephesians 2:10

Who you think you are has a tremendous impact on how your work shapes you.

Imagine two kids who are trying to get good grades. The first kid knows that she is loved and accepted by her parents. She works hard to please them because she loves them back. The second child fears he has to prove himself to his parents. He works hard to earn their approval.

In both cases, the work may look the same: hard work, good work. But the differences beneath the surface are enormous.

The kid who works from a secure identity experiences peace and joy in her work-life. The child who works from a striving identity experiences anxiety and bitterness in his work-life.

In our passage today, Paul wants us to know that God made us. We are his handiwork, his workmanship, his creation. Before we're given any work to do, we're told that God claims us.

How does having a secure identity shape your experience of work?

3 Comments

I think that's wise, Karen. It's awesome to see your Facebook posts about your exercising and your commitment to Bible study and prayer. Doing what you can and making the most of the waiting time is such a great discipline. Reminds me a bit of "Waiting Room" by Shane and Shane (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3-TNR-z4hpY). In the meantime, we'll keep praying for your work situation.

Now, having no work, it is very hard. I need a few hours of work to supplement my income and there is no job. This is hard, but it is a time when I can take part in bible studies during the week and get my act together about taking more time with God to start the days.

When I was working, I was very secure in the type of work I was doing because I loved it. I worked in medical offices for over 35 years. My last job lasted 25 years and it was very busy but it was wonderful. I found out about that job at a bible study!

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