Three Challenges of Being a Christian at Work

Living out our faith isn’t just about what we do on Sundays. It’s also about how we show up Monday through Friday. Whether it’s staying true to our values, treating colleagues with kindness, or trusting God during stressful projects, following Jesus at work can be challenging.

While we’re welcomed into God’s family from this moment we say “yes” to Jesus, we still have to make daily decisions to think, speak, and act in alignment with Jesus’ way of living.

As Christians in the workplace, we face a number of challenges and temptations over our tenure. Identifying them can make them easier to overcome. Here are just a few of the biggest challenges Christians face every day in the workplace.

Challenge 1: The Temptation to Conform

From gossip in the breakroom to pressure to cut corners for success, the workplace often tempts us to fit in at the expense of our values. Yet, as Christians, we are called to integrity, honesty, and compassion—even when it makes us stand out.

When we follow Jesus and walk in step with the Holy Spirit, we’ll likely make decisions that might look or feel weird at first. It can be tempting to compromise our values to fit in socially.

However, Jesus reminds us in John 17:16 that we “are not of the world”—like He wasn’t. This means that while we live in a broken world filled with sin, corruption, and heartache, our Christian faith sets us apart.

Challenge 2: The Temptation to Put Yourself First

The workplace often rewards self-promotion and ambition, which isn’t inherently bad. But Jesus calls us to a different mindset: one that values servant leadership. How can we honor God while also being successful in our careers? 

When discussing the two greatest commandments, Jesus reminded His followers to “love your neighbor as yourself” (Matthew 22:39). He knew that caring for ourselves often comes naturally, but it can be a challenge for us to love others with the same care and compassion.

This can be especially challenging when people get on your nerves, you’re in the middle of relational tension, or you already feel overwhelmed by things on your plate. It can be difficult to slow down and shift your perspective from yourself to others.

However, you can make small choices to move in the right direction. It starts with treating others with respect, celebrating their successes, and finding ways to serve, even in a competitive environment. 

Challenge 3: The Temptation to Doubt God’s Plan

Difficult bosses, missed promotions, or a toxic work environment can make us question God’s plan. In stressful times, it’s easy to let work consume us, leaving little time for prayer or faith. 

It can be tempting to think following Jesus exempts us from hardships and challenges, but His words remind us that we will still experience hurt. When we experience disappointments, unanswered prayers, or confusion about God’s plan, it can be tempting to stop believing in Him. 

Our frustrations and doubts can be a catalyst to walk away, or they can be an opportunity to lean in and experience the character of God in a whole new way.

In these moments, the Bible tells us to choose prayer and rely on God’s guidance rather than allowing our faith to falter. The Apostle Paul says in Philippians 4:

Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. Philippians 4:6 NIV

The Cost of Following Jesus

Following Jesus at work isn’t always easy, but it’s worth it. By staying true to our values, putting others first, and trusting God with our career, we not only honor Him—we also create an impact that goes beyond our job title.

Like this Newsletter? It was inspired by this article from Finds. Finds is a go-to source of approachable, practical, and personal spiritual growth content.