Declaration Of Freedom – For The Workplace
By: Robert J. Tamasy
The official date for this “Monday Manna” is July 4. In many parts of the world, this is just another day. However, as you might know, the Fourth of July in the United States is the annual celebration of “Independence Day.” It commemorates the date in 1776 when the “colonies” declared freedom from Great Britain’s sovereign rule.
What does the word “freedom” mean to you? Some might say it means being able to do whatever you wish. To others it means being free of oppression or unreasonable control. Dictionary.com defines it as: “the state of being free or at liberty rather than in confinement or under physical restraint; exemption from external control, interference, regulation; the power to determine action without restraint.”
Freedom is something cherished in the business and professional world, especially by those with entrepreneurial bents. They enjoy being able to do the kind of work they like, where and when they want to do it, how they prefer to do it. Of course, one important element is having the resources necessary to pursue our vocational desires.
When I think of freedom, one thought that comes to mind is the intersection of one’s work (or career) and faith. There are those who would contend the pragmatic, bottom line-oriented business environment has no room for faith. But I would disagree. In fact, I believe the Bible gives us clear guidelines for becoming the business and professional people we would like to be. Consider the following:
Freedom to become what we are designed to be. The reason we never see Volkswagens competing in a Formula One event is because they are not designed for that purpose. At the same time, if you want a comfortable, economical vehicle for traveling, you will not choose a Formula One racer. In a similar sense, we each are uniquely designed, with a mix of God-given personality, interests, skills and abilities that distinguish us from our peers. Recognizing this frees us to find professional fulfillment. “For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do” (Ephesians 2:10).
Freedom to do what is right. In the demanding, competitive marketplace of the 21st century, there are many temptations to sacrifice our principles, to compromise our convictions, to achieve success. But trust in God – rather than in external circumstances – frees us to hold fast to those values that breed honesty and integrity, that foster trust. “It is for freedom that Christ has set us free…. You, my brothers, were called to be free…. But do not use your freedom to indulge the sinful nature; rather, serve one another in love” (Galatians 5:1,13).
Freedom from fear. Without question, we live in fearful, unpredictable times. Economic, political and global uncertainties can fill us with anxiety. But trusting God is in control – and that He cares for us personally – can give us confidence and assurance we can find nowhere else. “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight” (Proverbs 3:5-6). “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand” (Isaiah 41:10).
Freedom to appropriate God’s resources. If you were starting a new business, it would be helpful to have the help of a wealthy benefactor. The Bible says God ultimately is the owner of everything, and He generously offers His resources for our use. If we are doing what He wants, He promises to provide for our needs. “And my God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:19).
Until next week!
Robert J. Tamasy is vice president of communications for Leaders Legacy, Inc., a non-profit corporation based in Atlanta, Georgia, U.S.A. A veteran of more than 35 years in professional journalism, he is the author of Business At Its Best: Timeless Wisdom from Proverbs for Today’s Workplace (River City Press) and has coauthored with David A. Stoddard, The Heart of Mentoring: 10 Proven Principles for Developing People to Their Fullest Potential (NavPress). For more information, see www.leaderslegacy.com or www.rivercitypress.net.
© MONDAY MANNA is a weekly issue of CBMC INTERNATIONAL a non-profit, evangelical ministry that exists to serve business and professional people as followers of Jesus; to present Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior to business and professional men.
