Let me be clear: I’m not hating on people who have careers. I don’t have a career in the traditional sense of the word, but in all actuality, I do. Career is not the problem here; it’s people thoughts about a career.
Here are three things I think people need to stop thinking about their career.
1. That it’s a sole source of income.
First of all, there’s money to be made everywhere. Seriously, if you live in the US, you can make money so many different ways. But many people see their career as their sole source of income. So when things get tight, they get worried.
I believe everyone should have a side hustle – another way you’re making a little extra cash. And I think that extra cash should be saved. It’s not about security; it’s about having the liberty to be generous or to do something gutsy for God – at a moment’s notice.
2. That it’s secure.
Careers are not more secure than self-employment. You can suddenly lose your job at any time for almost any reason. To be honest, it’s a little less scary to be self-employed, because I can see when disaster is coming. I know with a few weeks or months’ notice if the money supply is stopping.
Honestly, though, nothing is secure. But God doesn’t call us to live secure lives. We need to rely on Him, even when we have an amazing job with great benefits. God is our source, not a career.
3. That it’s just work.
Finally, I know so many people who can’t wait to get into ministry one day. They’ll quit their job and finally become a pastor – finally investing into people. But I believe one of the best ways to minister to people is at your job. Your job, getting paid, that’s almost secondary to your call as a Christian. Your ministry to the people you work alongside, that’s primary.
Don’t just do your work and cash your check. Invest encouragement and life into your coworkers. I guarantee your career will feel more like ministry than a job if you start doing that.
Careers are great. But I think we lost the point of work and money somewhere along the way. Let’s rediscover what it means to be successful in a godly sense – giving life to others and looking to our God as our source.