[Friday's Devotional] - David W

Could you start by telling us the main roles you've had in your working life?
I mainly worked in engineering, in various roles such as production planning, estimating, tendering and sales.  I also spent some time dealing with the Trade Unions and resolving issues at work.  Overall it was very enjoyable with opportunities to travel abroad, mainly to the continent, but I had a prolonged stay with A.E.I. in Bhopal, India where I was involved in the construction of the Heavy Electrical factory.  We started a Scout Troop there and even managed to learn Hindi!

Did you feel you were able to integrate your faith into your work? Yes is the easy answer, but examples are more difficult to recall.  Prayer did play a part but the situation was not always what we expected.  Meeting deadlines in tendering and resolving disputes in the works could be stressful at times, and there were at least two occasions when seemingly impossible deadlines were extended at the clients' requests.  One manager asked on several occasions where a certain passage came from in the bible - usually when he wanted to use it in a talk or speech.

Were there any Bible passages or Christian role models who particularly challenged or inspired you in your work? Joshua springs to mind for two reasons both of which are promises.  First was God's promise to Joshua - "As I was with Moses, so I will be with you; I will never leave you nor forsake you. ........ Be strong and courageous.  Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go." (Joshua1:5-6, 9). The second is Joshua's testimony to the Israelites - ".... choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve ...... But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord" (Joshua 24:15).

Are there any other encouragements you would give Christians in their work? Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today and forever.

Thank you Father that you are unchanging through the ups and downs of our work. Even though we may not always see you in the detail of what we do, thank you that you are always there. Thank you for the opportunities that work gives us – to provide for us and our families and also to engage with those around us, both directly through our paid work and through related activities.

Send us out Lord, in the power of your Spirit, to live and work to your praise and Glory. Amen

Jon Seaton