In Word and Deed

One of the most common fears of bringing faith to work is the risk of hypocrisy. What if you talk about your faith, and then someone sees you contradicting it?

The American Christian church has a long rap sheet of people who’ve said all the right words but fallen short in their deeds. And we can all agree no one wants to be one of those people.

Let’s get the easy part out of the way first: you (and I) will never be perfect.

If we wait until we’re perfect to share our faith, we’ll get to the grave with a track record of 100% missed opportunities.

That said, God’s grace should never be an excuse for laziness. The notion of “well, I’m not perfect” as license to live any way you want is a dangerous take on your faith. Not only that, but it also sets a terrible example of what it means to live for Christ.

If we’re going to bring our faith into our workplaces, we need to make sure we understand the importance of both our words and our deeds.

And whatever you do, in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.

Colossians 3:17

A simple place to start is demonstrating an upright character. People can discern the foundation of who you are by your simple actions. Keep in mind these aren’t directly related to faith, but should be representative of someone with integrity:

1. Show up on time
2. Keep your appointments
3. Keep your word
4. Lead by example

These ideas sound simple but are often understated. Don’t take other people’s time or attention casually. We are called to love others, and if we don’t value their time, no amount of words can convince them of our beliefs. Your deeds can easily nullify your words if your behavior is careless.

Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the Gospel of Christ.

Philippians 1:27

Intentionality in our words has equal measures of impact. Culturally, it’s uncomfortable to talk about faith in 21^st century America because our faith is a dividing line in an “inclusive” culture. It’s much easier to stay quiet. You’ve probably heard the quote from St. Francis Assisi, “Preach the Gospel at all times. Use words if necessary.”

This appears virtuous because it encourages faith in action. No mistaking it, I’m all about putting faith into action – as James tells us, “Faith without works is dead” (James 2:20). However, I don’t want to hide behind my works as my inspiration to just “do good.” God is my inspiration, and my goal is to give Him glory in all that I do. Why keep that a secret?

Works, as an extension of faith, should be the fruit of our belief and not the root of it. Once you know what God wants you to do, the blessing comes in actually doing it.

To that end, our words have parallel significance. Countless scriptures talk about the power and authority our words have over others. We know this to be true in other parts of life – words can build up or destroy, add life or subtract it. You’ve seen the power of an encouraging word and the detriment of a negative one.

Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruits.

Proverbs 18:21

Similarly, our words demonstrate who we are.

Out of the overflow of man’s heart his mouth speaks.

Luke 6:45

Speaking about your faith at work should be more natural if it’s truly the foundation of your identity. We don’t need to shoehorn “Christianese” lingo into every conversation or play a Christian “role.” People can usually spot that kind of disingenuous behavior from a mile away. The aim should be to remain in constant communion with the Holy Spirit and let Him guide your conversations. Be genuine and honest.

Not everyone will listen to an exegesis on the book of Revelation, but most will take time to hear your personal testimony. After all, no one can tell you how to tell your own story.

Have the courage to give God the glory when that’s what you genuinely feel about an accomplishment. Similarly, let people know that you’re trusting God if that is what’s getting you through a tough time. Always be sincere, and keep in mind the enemy of false humility.

In a world with competing ideas, your workplace needs your God story. It also needs your contributions of service, love and leadership. We are all on a journey, and we’ll need to live it out in word and deed as we work towards full maturity in Christ.

The Better Word:

1. Do you consider words or deeds more important in sharing your faith? We know that salvation only requires 1) a belief in our heart and 2) a confession with our mouth that Jesus is Lord. But once we mature to sharing our faith with others, we can get hung up on how to share. Be determined to hold both words and deeds in equal measure, understanding that both are evidence of true faith.
2. Speaking about your faith will require some bravery. The more we do something, the better we get, so be open to it as the Holy Spirit leads. Remember, it’s not about you anyway. If Jesus has transformed your life, why would you keep it a secret? If you’re afraid of presumed consequences, ask yourself what they are and why they matter.
3. Don’t rest on empty words. People can observe a person’s character in how they act long before they hear their words. That said, don’t forget to give God the glory. If He is your motivator, don’t hold back from sharing the Good News. Your words have authority.