September 28, 2009

Vocational Fulfillment

Written by Boyd Bailey

Vocational Fulfillment… “When his master saw that the LORD was with him and that the LORD gave him success in everything he did, Joseph found favor in his eyes and became his attendant. Potiphar put him in charge of his household, and he entrusted to his care everything he owned”. Genesis 39:3-4

What brings you fulfillment in your work? Is it the sense of accomplishment? Is it the opportunity to encourage someone? Is it the satisfaction of caring for your family? Is it the sense of security from a steady income stream? Your vocational fulfillment flows from a combination of these characteristics and more. When you are fulfilled in your job you are able to filter through the negatives on the way to the positives.

Be careful not to equate feeling passionate about your position with being fulfilled in your work. Passions ebb and flow around the excitement of a situation, like a start-up when everyone is thinking and working 24/7. But this break neck passionate pace is not sustainable. Your career is a marathon not a sprint. Indeed, if you are absorbed in your work, and not constantly glancing at the clock then perhaps you are in a place of fulfillment.

Is it your sense of control over the outcomes that draws you to serve where you work? You feel empowered, you are able to expand your skills and you can make a meaningful contribution in your community as a parent or an employee. Vocational fulfillment flows from a heart engaged in a mission that means something to you and to the Lord.

If Christ has placed you where you are, can you be content to serve Him wholeheartedly? The Almighty’s vocational assignment carries its own sense of satisfaction. Joseph found favor because God placed him in his leadership role. In the same way use your workplace platform as a launching pad for the Lord. Your ability to support others, offer promotions and create a caring culture facilitates fulfillment for everyone.

Vocational fulfillment is a faith journey that brings out the best in you and those around you. God blesses the work He assigns. Have you accepted the Lord’s assignment? “From the time he put him in charge of his household and of all that he owned, the LORD blessed the household of the Egyptian because of Joseph” (Genesis 39:5a). What brings me fulfillment in my job? How can I help others find fulfillment in their work?

Related Readings: Genesis 6:22; Exodus 35:30-32; 1 Corinthians 12:28; 1 Peter 4:10-11

Transformational Living
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