Workplace Meditation Week 7: Biblical Wisdom vs. Workplace-Worldly Wisdom
Workplace Meditation
Biblical Wisdom vs. Workplace-Worldly Wisdom
Bible Passage: Proverbs 4: 7
Passage Key Words: “Wisdom is supreme,” “get understanding”
Topical Key Words: workplace wisdom & understanding, godly wisdom & understanding
The Bible advises that we get godly wisdom and understanding regardless of the cost in time and effort. It also warns of the eventual bankruptcy and fall of those who subscribe to worldly wisdom (Psalm 37: 1-11; 1 Corinthians 1: 18-25). Here are fifteen-workplace worldly wisdom and their godly counterparts:
| Workplace-worldly Wisdom | Biblical Wisdom |
| Work smart (eye-service & self promotion) | Work as if for Christ & eternal reward (Ephesians 6: 5-8) |
| Play office politics and do whatever it takes | Deal and speak honestly and live godly lives (Colossians 3:9) |
| Please yourself first and live for now | Please God first and live for eternity (Colossians 3: 1-4) |
| Create your own success | Achieve Christ-centered success (Philippians 3: 7-11) |
| Join the after-work play club | Shun sinful activities and companionship (1 Thessalonians 4: 7-8) |
| Sin is fun and liberating, now. | Sin hurts, destroys and enslaves, long term (Proverbs 1: 28-32) |
| Get even and never forgive or forget | Forgive and leave vengeance to God (Romans 12:17-21) |
| Be sociable—join, share and enjoy bad jokes | Shun corrupt communication (Ephesians 4: 29-31) |
| Be a closet Christian (ashamed and defeated) | Be a Christian light (salty, victorious and radiant) (Matthew 5: 13-16) |
| Keep work and ministry separate | Use workplace excellence to share ministry (1 Thessalonians 4: 11-12) |
| Lead by power and position | Lead by humility and example (Philippians 2: 3-11) |
| Maximize your promotions, bonuses and perks | Maximize your goodness, kindness and generosity (Romans 12: 6-8) |
| Be legal (and not necessarily ethical) | Be holy (legal, ethical and holy) (1 Thessalonians 4:7) |
| Blame and criticize your boss and difficult coworkers | Do not judge, gossip or backbite anyone (Philippians 2: 14-15) |
| Share your Monday-morning blues | Share Christ-inspired peace, thankfulness and love (Colossians 3: 15-17) |
“Guard your heart” and nourish your soul with biblical readings, teachings and wisdom, and “then you will be prosperous and successful” (Joshua 1: 8b).
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