“Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.” (Colossians 3:15)
By Steve McShane
Sometimes, finding peace begins with taking care of ourselves in our workplaces and at home.
I recently experienced complications associated with a birthday party my wife and I planned for our daughter. I found myself rushing around the house with a long to-do list to complete before guests arrived.
As the morning ensued, I became increasingly angry and unreasonable and began to sabotage the event. Ultimately, I blamed Satan for the situation and drove off way too fast to get ice.
It took awhile before I realized it’s not always Satan’s fault. I had not eaten breakfast and had not gotten a good night’s sleep. I was ripe for conflict.
Once I took responsibility for my state of mind and ate some food, I was much better prepared to be of service. I was able to pray and seek God’s intention for the party ahead. Hours later, God delivered on an incredible event for the 6-, 7-, and 8-year-olds at our house.
Unbelievably, that lesson came back around in my work for a small nonprofit. I recently found myself being a wet blanket in a staff meeting when a colleague presented an awesome new project. As soon as I realized it was 2:30 p.m. and I had not had lunch yet, I bit my tongue.
In our home lives and workplaces, once we take responsibility for our state of mind and properly take care of the temple we live in, we are much better prepared to be of service. When we do this, our prayer, family, and work lives improve, and our walk with the Lord is much richer.
Pray
Lord, help me to seek, know, and understand your will that I might be a more worthy instrument of your love.
Reflect
How is the Holy Spirit guiding you to answer the Lord’s calling?
Discuss
Think about a coworker who is going through difficult circumstances. How is the Holy Spirit calling you to be the Lord’s presence?
Steve McShane is president of the WorkLight Monterey Chapter. He is past president of the WorkLight Salinas Valley Chapter. He serves as director of development for The Bridge Restoration Ministry (tbrm.org).