Christian in a secular workplace

Most Christians do not work in a Christian environment. We have been planted in different places all over the globe in every industry. Some of us are hiding in plain sight while others have no problem proclaiming the name of Jesus up and down the hallways. Most are somewhere in between.

We all know there are rules against harassment of any type in the workplace. Employees should feel safe at all times whether or not other employees agree with their religious beliefs. On the other hand, speaking from a Christian point of view, there is a time and a place for everything. Where I work everyone knows I am a Christian not because I shouted it from the rooftop of the work place but because I am being watched. I also know that I will not win people over by being holier-than-thou. It is as simple as doing my work to the best of my ability at all times, having the right attitude even when I really want to scream, and exercising integrity in everything I do. I’m not perfect. All of this takes practice and a consistent relationship with Christ. It also helps to pray before you walk into your workplace!

There will be co-workers who just don’t like the fact that you are a Christian. They will challenge you, say and do offensive things to attempt to throw you off of your Christian ‘pedestal’, and even try to catch you saying or doing something ‘non-Christian’. What do you do when you are surrounded by people whom I call ‘runners’? They are running from a relationship with Christ because they have been hurt by Christians or hurt by ‘organized religion’. Some of them even grew up in church and know how to ‘do church.’

I have found that the best thing to do is to continue to be who you are, a man or woman of God; and to continue to do the right thing. I also believe that there may come a time when you may have to say something to these individuals. If that has to be done, keep the right attitude. Remember, they want you to get upset and maybe even say something you should not. Pray before talking to these individuals or talking to management and only say something if you must. Remember, you have just as much right to work there and you have just as much right to believe in Christ as they do not to believe. But the right attitude is very important. How will you win these individuals over otherwise?

Regardless of what happens, keep these individuals on your prayer list. You may never see the change, but don’t give up. Someone said “Bloom where you are planted.” It’s not always easy, but that is the mandate to all Christians. Hebrews 13:5-6 says “Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me.”