LIGHT FOR THE OFTEN-DARKENED WORKPLACE

By Robert J. Tamasy

At this time of year your workplace probably has some festive lights on display. Sparkling lights are a common symbol during the holiday season: Colorful lights on Christmas trees; white lights adorning homes, retail stores and businesses; candles displayed in windows and atop tables. For some people a highlight of the season is a “festival of lights.”

For some, these lights are merely a pleasant tradition. At a time of year when nights are longer and darker in the Northern Hemisphere, the lights serve to brighten otherwise cold and gloomy days. For followers of Jesus Christ, the lights relate to elements of the story of the first Christmas, especially “the star in the east” that the wise men known as the Magi followed so they could worship the Christ child (Matthew 2:1-12).

For all who profess to believe in Jesus, light represents more than the Nativity star. Matthew 4:16 in the New Testament repeats the Old Testament prophecy of Isaiah 9:2: “the people living in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of the shadow of death a light has dawned.” These passages refer to Jesus as “the light.” And during his three-year earthly ministry, Jesus declared, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life” (John 8:12).

But what is the significance of this “light” as we pursue our careers every day in the 21st century workplace? Here are some principles from the Bible:

Christ’s light promises life. Many people choose vocations in the business and professional world to satisfy their material needs and desires, and find a measure of fulfillment in the process. But too often they get caught up in “the rat race,” a relentless treadmill that takes them at a frenetic pace to nowhere. Instead of “making a living,” they must focus on merely surviving. Jesus promised to give his followers purpose and meaning, as well as to meet their daily needs. “In him was life, and that life was the light of men.” (John 1:4). “Jesus said, ‘I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me’” (John 14:6).

Christ’s light offers freedom from darkness. Today’s workplace seems increasingly dark. Lingering economic woes have dimmed our hopes. Deadlines and demands challenge our convictions and values. Leaders we once admired have revealed the dark sides of their character. Jesus promised to give light to lead us through the deepening shadows. “The light shines in the darkness, but the darkness has not understood it…. The true light that gives light to every man was coming into the world” (John 1:5,9).

Christ’s light provides direction. “What should I do?” “Where should I go?” “How can I get through this?” These and many other questions consume us. We all need direction and guidance. Jesus assures his followers that when they look to him, he will show the way and provide the wisdom they need. “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path” (Psalm 119:105).

In celebrating Christmas, are you resolved to “walk in the light, as he is in the light” (1 John 1:7)?

Robert J. Tamasy is vice president of communications for Leaders Legacy, Inc., a non-profit corporation based in Atlanta, Georgia, U.S.A. A veteran journalist for 40 years, he is the author of Tufting Legacies (iUniverse); Business At Its Best: Timeless Wisdom from Proverbs for Today’s Workplace (River City Press); and has coauthored with David A. Stoddard, The Heart of Mentoring (NavPress). For more information, see www.leaderslegacy.com or his blogs, www.bobtamasy.blogspot.com and www.bobtamasy.wordpress.com.

CBMC INTERNATIONAL: James Firnstahl, President
1065 N. 115th Street, Suite 210 ▪ Omaha, Nebraska 68154 ▪ U.S.A.
TEL.: (402) 431-0002 ▪ FAX: (402) 431-1749 ▪ E-MAIL: info@cbmcint.org
Please direct any requests or change of address to: www.cbmcint.org

Reflection/Discussion Questions

1. When you see the lights displayed during the holiday season, what thoughts come to your mind?

2. For you, what is the significance or meaning of Jesus Christ’s declaration that he is “the light of the world”?

3. What has been your primary experience at work – are you “living” as you expected you would, or are you finding yourself merely “surviving,” hanging on through the stresses and struggles of every day? Explain your answer.

4. Have you discovered that a relationship with Jesus has brought light for finding much-needed guidance and direction in your career, or in making critical decisions? If so, in what ways?

NOTE: If you have a Bible and would like to review additional passages that relate to this topic, consider the following verses:

Psalm 36:9, 119:130; Isaiah 58:6-10; Micah 7:8-9; Matthew 5:16; Luke 11:33-36; John 3:19-21

ADVICE: AVOID ENTERING INTO A PARTNERSHIP

By Ken Korkow

I have been very fortunate in having had successful business partnerships with three good friends – Shan Burke, Don Smith and Ron Young. However, statistically only one out of every 35 partnerships is successful; all the rest fail. So based on this dismal record, it would be wise to avoid entering into partnerships. The question is, why do partnerships fail so often? I think there is a simple reason: Because the right questions were not addressed at the beginning, before legal documents are signed and handshakes are exchanged.

Here are some basic principles – and some words of caution – to consider before taking the risk of entering into a partnership:

Do not be “unequally yoked.” To start, the Bible offers this stern warning: “Do not be unequally yoked with unbeliever. For what do righteousness and wickedness have in common? Or what fellowship can light have with darkness?” (2 Corinthians 6:14) Just as you would not “yoke” a horse and an ox together, followers of Jesus Christ should not “yoke” (be tied together) with those that are not-yet-Christians. Even both parties professing to be Christians does not ensure an equal match. A Shetland pony and a Clydesdale are both horses, but are of different size and temperament – even sharing some similarities, they would be “unequal.”

What about correction? Even if you were “equally yoked” with someone, what would happen if God were to discipline your partner? In other words, what would be your response if the person undergoes necessary correction in his or her life, for whatever reason?

What is the purpose of the partnership? Each party must write down their expectations or goals for the partnership. These do not have to be identical, but must be compatible. For instance: What happens when there is a profit? What happens if there is a loss? Can those goals be accomplished without entering into a formal, legally binding partnership?

Who has final authority? When crucial decisions must be made, who has the ultimate authority? Would you be willing to surrender all of your authority to that person?

What is the personality profile of each partner? You might be good friends, enjoy working together and share common values, but if your personalities and work styles are very different, conflict might be inevitable.

Do you agree on biblical principles? If there is a disagreement in the partnership – whether short-term operations or long-term goals and objectives, what would be the mechanism for resolution? Would you both be willing to use the Bible and its principles for business to resolve conflicts?

Spell out ALL the details in writing. There is a saying, “A short pencil is better than a long memory.” Make it so clear that if necessary, both of the executors of your estates could easily wrap up the details. Cover what would happen in the event of divorce, disability, disinterest, death, debt, or dishonesty.

ALWAYS have a buy-sell agreement. This should be an agreement either party can initiate, at anytime, without dispute. If the partnership does not work out, ending it should not cause unnecessary problems.

Involve your spouse in the process. Being a controlling, workaholic risk-taker, I often would not involve my wife in business decisions. I had the experience, I reasoned, and an MBA. Liz was only a schoolteacher. But I made many foolish mistakes until I learned that in every phase of life I was in partnership – with God as “managing partner,” and with my wife as “equal partner.” And I accepted that she should “veto power” over my business decisions. At first I feared I would never do another good business deal again, because by the time Liz figured it out, all the good deals would be gone. But slowly I learned God had equipped her with ‘intuitive radar’ I do not have; as a result, we have avoided MANY bad deals and have enjoyed a life that works for us.

Ken Korkow lives in Omaha, Nebraska, U.S.A., where he serves as an area director for CBMC. This is adapted from the “Fax of Life” column that he writes each week. Used with permission.

CBMC INTERNATIONAL: James Firnstahl, President
1065 N. 115th Street, Suite 210 ▪ Omaha, Nebraska 68154 ▪ U.S.A.
TEL.: (402) 431-0002 ▪ FAX: (402) 431-1749 ▪ E-MAIL: info@cbmcint.org
Please direct any requests or change of address to: www.cbmcint.org

Reflection/Discussion Questions

1. Are you now, or have you ever been, in a partnership? If so, what has that experience been like for you?

2. What do you think of the biblical warning against becoming “unequally yoked”? Do you agree with that principle, or does it seem unnecessarily restrictive? Explain your answer.

3. Which of the other principles regarding partnerships seems most useful or practical, from your perspective? Would any of these cause you to take additional precautions before entering into a partnership? Why or why not?

4. Think about Mr. Korkow’s recommendation to involve your spouse in major business decisions. How realistic is this, in your opinion, especially if your partner does not have experience or expertise in the kind of work that you do? What could be the benefits of doing as he suggests?

NOTE: If you have a Bible and would like to review some other passages that relate to this topic, consider the following verses:

Proverbs 12:15, 15:22, 19:20, 27:17; Ecclesiastes 4:9-12; Colossians 3:17,23-24

THE PERIL – AND PROMISE – OF UNCERTAINTY

By: Rick Boxx

Many business leaders believe a primary reason the global economy continues to struggle and has demonstrated little evidence of renewed strength is due to uncertainty. Taxes are creating a strain on everyone. Many economic indicators are unsettling. And the political landscape in much of the world is filled with unknowns. As a result, business leaders are hesitant about moving forward with new projects, hiring new staff, or engaging in any significant activity that could put their corporate bottom lines at risk.

In one respect, such cautious approaches seem warranted. Would it be wise to proceed with reckless abandon even though economic conditions do not seem favorable? In the Bible’s Old Testament, the book of Proverbs endorses taking action with prudence. For instance, it says, “The prudent sees danger and takes refuge, but the simple keep going and suffer for it” (Proverbs 27:12). In other words, failure to recognize dangerous situations and act accordingly can lead to disastrous consequences.

Yet waiting until conditions seem perfect might not be the most prudent course to take, either. By then it might be too late. As the adage reminds us, “The early bird catches the worm.” Sometimes the best time to launch something new is when everyone is gripped by inertia. While everyone else has become immobilized by fear of what might lie ahead, some of the great success stories in the history of business have been individuals with the courage – and foresight – to proceed with well-conceived ideas.

So how does one tell the difference? How can you discern when it is best to be cautious and wait, and when it is best to move forward despite prevailing uncertainty?

While no one can offer guarantees of success even in the most favorable economic conditions, the Bible offers some helpful guidelines worth considering. Again the book of Proverbs provides sound insight:

Gather all the information needed. One of the major contributors to failure is unwillingness to conduct sufficient research and prepare properly before taking action. “The heart of the discerning acquires knowledge; the ears of the wise seek it out” (Proverbs 18:15).

Seek counsel from trusted associates. One way to get that information is consulting with friends and peers that are knowledgeable about the steps you are considering. They can provide viewpoints you might not have considered. “For lack of guidance a nation falls, but many advisers make victory sure” (Proverbs 11:14). “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed” (Proverbs 15:22).

Proceed motivated by a desire to honor and please God. Too often plans are driven by selfish desires or prideful motivations. Those potential pitfalls can be avoided when the individual’s intent is to follow the direction God reveals. In the Bible’s New Testament, Romans 8:5 teaches, “Those who live according to the sinful nature have their minds set on what that nature desires; but those who live in accordance with the Spirit have their minds set on what the Spirit desires.”

Prudent planning and awareness of dangers are imperative in business, yet when you truly sense that the Spirit of God is prodding you to move forward, the wisest course is to listen to God’s Spirit.

Copyright 2011, Integrity Resource Center, Inc. Adapted with permission from “Integrity Moments with Rick Boxx,” a commentary on issues of integrity in the workplace from a Christian perspective. To learn more about Integrity Resource Center or to sign up for Rick’s daily Integrity Moments, visit www.integrityresource.org. His book, How to Prosper in Business Without Sacrificing Integrity, gives a biblical approach for doing business with integrity.

CBMC INTERNATIONAL: James Firnstahl, President
1065 N. 115th Street, Suite 210 ▪ Omaha, Nebraska 68154 ▪ U.S.A.
TEL.: (402) 431-0002 ▪ FAX: (402) 431-1749 ▪ E-MAIL: info@cbmcint.org
Please direct any requests or change of address to: www.cbmcint.org

Reflection/Discussion Questions

1. What has been your organization’s attitude toward planning for the future in light of the ongoing uncertainty surrounding the economy, both nationally and globally?

2. We can understand the importance of proceeding with caution before embarking on new initiatives. But could there be drawbacks from being too cautious? Explain your answer.

3. When you feel strongly about introducing new ideas or programs, what process do you typically follow? Have you used any of the steps suggested by Mr. Boxx – or do you think they might be helpful in the future? Explain your answer.

4. In the pragmatic, everyday world of business, what do you think it means to have a desire to honor and please God in business? How does that apply to dealing with uncertainties in the economy? Is it even practical – in your view – to try doing this? Why or why not?

NOTE: If you have a Bible and would like to read more about this subject, consider the following passages:

Psalm 37:4-5, Proverbs 10:17, 11:2,14, 12:15, 14:15, 15:14, 16:3,9, 27:17; Colossians 3:17

PRAISING THE VIRTUES OF CREATIVITY

By Jim Mathis

One of the major differences between humans and other creatures is our creativity. The Bible says God made us in His own image; from the beginning He intended for us to be creative, as He is.

Recently I was talking with an artist friend – a painter – about art created by an individual versus art created by a team. As a painter, my friend primarily works alone, as do I in my work as a photographer. When other people are involved in a project, they are usually photographic subjects. They are very much part of the process, but the creativity is primarily using my eyes, head and heart to create photographs. The camera is a tool, just as a paintbrush or a sculpture’s chisel are tools, for creating the artwork.

I view my other profession – as a musician – primarily as a “team sport.” Some musicians like to work alone as composers or solo performers, but for me, music is best done by a team. The team can be small like a duo – John Lennon and Paul McCartney, for example – or can be large like a symphony orchestra.

The same principle applies in the business world. A CEO or company executive at times must work alone, making decisions that he or she alone can make. Sales executives often travel alone to meet with prospective clients, hoping to persuade them to purchase products or services they represent. At such times, they utilize personal creativity to determine what they think can best achieve their objectives.

Much of the time, however, a team approach in business is best. For instance, in formulating strategies for the future, developing specific plans for a new initiative, or evaluating overall performance for a department or the company overall, drawing from different perspectives often leads to better results.

Whatever the size of the team, the “magic” happens when you realize that the whole is greater than the sum of the parts. In other words, you achieve something together that you could not have accomplished by yourself. We often see this same reality in the world of sports. When members of a team play well together, the results can be much greater than what you would expect from each one individually.

The musical group of which I am a member, Sky Blue, was formed years ago because we wanted to make art in the form of music. When we perform, our audience will see four artists listening to each other, responding to what the others are singing and playing, and adding to the musical conversation in a way that is, hopefully, pleasing to the ear. We are not a jazz band, but that is basically what jazz music is.

Most of the time, we come away with big smiles on our faces because we have produced something that was never heard before – and probably won’t be heard again in exactly that same way.

The Bible often speaks to the value of teamwork. In the Old Testament, Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 it points out, “Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their work. If one falls down, his friend can help him up. But pity the man who falls and has no one to help him up!… Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.”

Proverbs 27:17 also states, “As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another.” We each have unique talents and abilities, but to perform at our best, we need each other.

Jim Mathis is the owner of a photography studio in Overland Park, Kansas, specializing in executive, commercial and theatrical portraits, and operates a school of photography. Jim is the author of High Performance Cameras for Ordinary People, a book on digital photography. He formerly was a coffee shop manager and executive director of CBMC in Kansas City, Kansas and Kansas City, Missouri.

CBMC INTERNATIONAL: Jim Firnstahl, President
1065 N. 115th Street, Suite 210 ▪ Omaha, Nebraska 68154 ▪ U.S.A.
TEL.: (402) 431-0002 ▪ FAX: (402) 431-1749 ▪ E-MAIL: info@cbmcint.org
Please direct any requests or change of address to: www.cbmcint.org

Reflection/Discussion Questions

1. How would you say that creativity is involved in the work that you do? Give some examples.

2. From your experience, what tasks can you accomplish most effectively on your own, and which are usually most successful when you are working as part of a team, whether that involves just one other person or a group of people?

3. Have you been in situations where, in looking back at what had been achieved, you realized – as Jim Mathis stated – “the whole is greater than the sum of the parts”? Explain your answer.

4. In your opinion, whether it be in a business environment, sporting activities, community projects, or artistic pursuits such as music, what are the greatest benefits of teamwork, in terms of creativity?

If you would like to look at or discuss other portions of the Bible that relate to this topic, consider the following brief sampling of passages:

Exodus 4:10-17, Numbers 13:1-31; Matthew 10:1-16; Mark 6:7; 1 Corinthians 1:1;
2 Corinthians 1:1; 2 Thessalonians 1:1

FOR WHAT – OR WHOM – ARE YOU THANKFUL?

By Robert J. Tamasy

This week millions of people all around the world will officially mark the observance of Thanksgiving Day, although it is perfectly acceptable to feel thankful at any time during the year. One of the good things about holidays like Thanksgiving Day is they provide specific motivation to pause, reflect and remember things – and people – for which we are grateful.

Typically, material things come to mind when we think in terms of blessings: our homes, food, clothing, income, jobs, good health. But have you ever considered directing your thanks toward those people that have made a positive impact on your life?

When I think of such individuals, I realize my list is fairly long. It includes: my parents; an uncle who was like a father figure to me, particularly during my teenage and college years; a number of teachers and professors, especially several that guided me in making key career decisions. Then there are the men who took the risk in hiring me to serve as editor of their newspapers, launching my career in journalism.

There also were those that hired me to join the CBMC staff, which proved a blessing both professionally and spiritually. My work at CBMC enabled me to fulfill my goals for writing magazine articles and books, and also introduced me to the life-changing process of mentoring other men on an individual basis.

Through my 20 years as a member of the CBMC team, I was able to attend conferences where I could learn from other professional writers and editors. In addition, I became friends with dozens of people I grew to admire for their dedication to their work – and serving God at the same time. They demonstrated how to successfully integrate faith and vocation, proving that Christianity and workplace concerns are not mutually exclusive, and can be effectively addressed without compromise.

Who are the people you are especially thankful for – those individuals who have left an indelible imprint on your life, helping to shape you into the person you are today?

Here are a few other suggestions the Bible offers regarding thanksgiving:

Be thankful for EVERYTHING. Often our expressions of thankfulness focus only on “good things” – things that make us happy. But the challenges of life, the adversities we encounter that contribute to our personal and professional growth, also are valuable and deserve appreciation. “Be joyful always…give thanks in all circumstances…” (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18).

No limits to thanksgiving. Those whose faith is in Jesus Christ can entrust him with every aspect of our lives. There is no need to fear the future, confident that God will provide for our needs and guide us in confronting whatever problems and needs we encounter. “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God” (Philippians 4:6).

Know the right one to thank. When expressing thanksgiving, some people credit good fortune or “luck,” fate or coincidence. The Bible teaches God guides our steps and is worthy of our thanks and praise. “Let us come before him with thanksgiving and extol him with music and song” (Psalm 95:2).

Robert J. Tamasy is vice president of communications for Leaders Legacy, Inc., a non-profit corporation based in Atlanta, Georgia, U.S.A. A veteran journalist for 40 years, he is the author of Tufting Legacies (iUniverse); Business At Its Best: Timeless Wisdom from Proverbs for Today’s Workplace (River City Press); and has coauthored with David A. Stoddard, The Heart of Mentoring (NavPress). For more information, see www.leaderslegacy.com or his blogs, www.bobtamasy.blogspot.com and www.bobtamasy.wordpress.com.

CBMC INTERNATIONAL: Jim Firnstahl, President
1065 N. 115th Street, Suite 210 ▪ Omaha, Nebraska 68154 ▪ U.S.A.
TEL.: (402) 431-0002 ▪ FAX: (402) 431-1749 ▪ E-MAIL: info@cbmcint.org
Please direct any requests or change of address to: www.cbmcint.org

Reflection/Discussion Questions

1. Do you have a formal observance of Thanksgiving Day, or some other specific occasion when you express thankfulness? If so, what does that look like for you, your family and friends that join you?

2. Who are some of the people in your life for whom you are especially thankful or appreciative – and what was the specific impact they have had in shaping who you are today?

3. Have you ever expressed thankfulness for the hard times in life – challenges and adversities that for a time seemed to be without resolution? Or do you think feeling and being thankful for difficulties makes no sense? Explain your answer.

4. If you were to express thankfulness for some things that are happening in your life right now, what would be the first thing that comes to your mind?

NOTE: If you have a Bible and would like to review additional passages that relate to this topic, consider the following verses:

Psalm 100:1-5, 105:1-7, 106:1-2; 2 Corinthians 9:10-11; 1 Thessalonians 1:2; Colossians 2:6-7

HOW TO ‘FLAMEPROOF’ YOUR CAREER

By Dr. Rick Warren

“You are about the most flameproof person in this office.” Those words from the boss, indicating that her job was safe, brought understandable relief to the receptionist of a corporation that was engaged in major downsizing. Despite the turmoil some of her coworkers were facing, she took some comfort in feeling “flameproof.”

As the global economy continues the struggle, many companies are still finding it necessary to reduce their workforces so they can retain or regain a competitive position in highly challenging times. In such an uncertain environment, knowing how to “flameproof” your career is a wise job skill!

KEEP YOUR CAREER EVEN IF YOU ARE TERMINATED. You might not be able to flameproof your present job, but you can and should flameproof your career in a long-term sense. We find a good example of this in the Bible’s Old Testament:

In the book of Genesis, we read about Joseph, the faithful man in with the amazing multi-colored dream coat (a gift from his father) who twice was knocked off the corporate ladder. First, he landed in a pit and later in a prison. His brothers on the family board of directors gave the first shove. Later his boss’s wife made false accusations that resulted in Joseph being put behind bars. Not exactly the ideal path to take for corporate advancement.

However, Joseph knew how to flameproof his career and ended up on the top rung of the biggest ladder in Egypt. In fact, he later forgave his brothers for their betrayal with these words: “You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good…” (Genesis 50:20).

KEEP YOUR CHARACTER BY KEEPING PRIDE IN CHECK. Pride inhibits service and stops the flow of God’s grace (His unmerited, undeserved favor) in your direction. “God (and many others) resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble” (James 4:6). Pride has a tendency to distort one’s view of reality that amounts to blindness. Another consequence of pride is that it gives motivation and ammunition for your enemies to seek to bring about your downfall.

KEEP YOUR CHARACTER BY KEEPING YOUR PROMISES. People that are promise keepers end up in the big tent on the holy hill! “He…who keeps his oath even when it hurts” (Psalms 15:1,40). Remember, it is much easier to keep your promises if you make fewer of them – then it is more likely you will be able to hold true to every one that you do make. Character grows fastest when difficult to honor promises are kept with the “little people” in our lives – those individuals that seem “less important” to our goals and desires, yet are just as deserving of our integrity.

KEEP YOUR CHARACTER BY TREATING EVERYBODY LIKE AN ANGEL. “Never…refuse to extend your hospitality…sometimes men have entertained angels unawares” (Hebrews 13:2). You never know who will end up being your boss. There is a saying that we should be careful who we step on as we climb up the corporate ladder – they might pass us on our way back down! Never fret when people that use others get ahead, because they usually end up losing their head. “I once knew a wicked man who was like a tyrant; he towered over everyone…but later I passed by, and he wasn’t there; I looked for him, but couldn’t find him.”

© 2011, Purpose Driven Life. All rights reserved. Adapted from a column by Dr. Rick Warren, author of numerous books, including the highly acclaimed, The Purpose-Drive Life, which has been translated into many languages worldwide. It affirms the importance of a carefully considered, clearly expressed purpose to guide everyday life. It has been named one of the 100 Christian books that changed the 20th Century.

CBMC INTERNATIONAL: Jim Firnstahl, President
1065 N. 115th Street, Suite 210 ▪ Omaha, Nebraska 68154 ▪ U.S.A.
TEL.: (402) 431-0002 ▪ FAX: (402) 431-1749 ▪ E-MAIL: info@cbmcint.org
Please direct any requests or change of address to: www.cbmcinto.org

Reflection/Discussion Questions

1. How would you rate the security of your current job – do you regard yourself as “flameproof,” or do you fear that it could go up in flames at any moment?

2. What do you think Dr. Warren means when he says, “Keep your career even if you are terminated”? Have you ever had a opportunity to put this advice into practice?

3. Why can personal pride become an issue in one’s desire to keep a job secure? What is the difference between the kind of negative, offensive pride Dr. Warren refers to and taking pride in doing your work well and achieving good results?

4. Have you ever experienced a person using – or abusing – you as he or she was striving to advance their career? How did that feel?

NOTE: If you have a Bible, consider these other passages that relate to this topic:

Proverbs 20:28, 22:29, 25:13, 28:20; Colossians 3:17, 23; Matthew 5:37; James 5:12

RULES AND RELATIONSHIPS: FINDING A GOOD BALANCE

By: Rick Boxx

Just as in many families, many businesses seem to struggle with achieving a proper balance between maintaining rules and discipline while providing employees enough latitude for freedom and individuality. Some organizations are far too permissive, allowing their personnel to do virtually anything as they see fit. Others are too strict, severely restricting their staff’s actions and behavior.

When I lead business workshops, I like to teach the following formula:

“Rules + Relationships = Corporate Integrity.”

My years of experience in the corporate world have taught me this balance is crucial for a healthy, productive working environment. If you have rules, but have very little in terms of relationship, you will likely experience rebellion.

If, on the other hand, you have placed a strong emphasis on relationships, but you do not have well-thought-out, established guidelines for everyday practices and behavior, you might experience chaos. Being able to balance the two provides assurance to your people that you care about them, yet at the same time expect them to produce results in keeping with your company’s mission and values.

Romans 13:3 teaches, “For rulers hold no terror for those who do right, but for those who do wrong. Do you want to be free from fear of the one in authority? Then do what is right and he will commend you.”

The problem occurs when there is confusion among your employees as to what “to do right” means. As leaders, our responsibility is to communicate that clearly and effectively. Just as sociologists have discovered children are most content when they understand their boundaries – whether at home or in school – business and professional people also look to their leaders to define the parameters under which they are expected to perform their jobs.

Rules and guidelines, especially when created with valued input from the people who will be governed by them, are not restrictive. They actually are empowering, because the individuals understand they are free to use their talents and abilities within those limits. Without those rules, workers can become confused, even immobilized, by fear of doing something wrong.

The alternative is for personnel to determine their own standards, which can have chaotic results. As Proverbs 29:18 tells us, “Where there is no vision, the people run wild.” Another translation expresses the same passage this way: “Where there is no revelation, the people cast off restraint, but blessed is he who keeps the law.”

Establishing rules just for the sake of controlling people can be demoralizing, so guidelines must be used as a means for enhancing the productivity – and satisfaction – of people in your employ.

Strong, effective leaders know how to balance compassion and discipline. Do you?

Copyright 2011, Integrity Resource Center, Inc. Adapted with permission from “Integrity Moments with Rick Boxx,” a commentary on issues of integrity in the workplace from a Christian perspective. To learn more about Integrity Resource Center or to sign up for Rick’s daily Integrity Moments, visit www.integrityresource.org. His book, How to Prosper in Business Without Sacrificing Integrity, gives a biblical approach for doing business with integrity.

CBMC INTERNATIONAL: Jim Firnstahl, President
1065 N. 115th Street, Suite 210 ▪ Omaha, Nebraska 68154 ▪ U.S.A.
TEL.: (402) 431-0002 ▪ FAX: (402) 431-1749 ▪ E-MAIL: info@cbmcint.org
Please direct any requests or change of address to: www.cbmcint.org

Reflection/Discussion Questions

1. What gets the strongest emphasis where you work – rules or relationships? Explain how you see this being demonstrated on a day-to-day basis.

2. How do you think a leader can go about seeking this balance, as Mr. Boxx writes, between rules and relationships? Is that even practical to attempt this, in your opinion? Why or why not?

3. It is suggested that people who are going to be governed by established rules and guidelines should have input into what those are? What are your thoughts about taking that approach?

4. Have you ever found yourself in a situation where you were not certain what the rules were that governed your actions or the plans you were formulating? If so, how did you feel about that circumstance – and what was the outcome?

NOTE: If you have a Bible and would like to read more about this subject, consider the following passages:

Proverbs 6:20-23, 13:13,18, 21:1; Romans 13:1-5; Ephesians 6:5-9; Colossians 3:17, 22-25

Direction by Impulse

By Derek Dutka

I often read Oswald Chambers ‘My Utmost For His Highest’ as part of my daily devotions. Even though I have used it for years, each time provides a fresh revelation. The above title was for October 21.

Chambers talks about the calm strength of Jesus’ earthly life – He never got into a panic! Most of us develop our Christianity along the line of our temperment, not along the line of God. He finished off with the following: “We do not need the grace of God to stand crises, human nature and pride are sufficient, we can face the strain magnificently; but it does require the supernatural grace of God to live twenty-four hours in everyday as a saint, to go through drudgery as a disciple, to live an ordinary, unobserved, ignored existence as a disciple of Jesus. It is inbred in us that we have to do exceptional things for God; but we have not. We have to be exceptional in the ordinary things, to be holy in mean streets, among mean people, and this is not learned in five minutes.“

That last part – ‘We have to be exceptional in the ordinary things,’ really struck me. Isn’t that at the core of what integrity is? And isn’t that a reflection of our one-ness with Christ? Just imagine if every Christian purposed in their hearts to be the very best that they could be in whatever circumstance God puts them in . . . every day. Think of the impact you would have on the people around you! Whether you are a school teacher, a stay at home mom, an office cleaner, the CEO of a Fortune 500 company, a factory worker, a truck driver, a baker, a professional athlete or musician, a volunteer coach, a shopper – it doesn’t really matter. Whatever you do, you do as a witness for Jesus Christ. That is a startling thought because I can think of times when my actions and attitudes would not have been a good reflection (witness) of who Jesus Christ is!

Our lives need to reflect an awesome reverence for the God of creation, and a respect for other human beings, whom God created in His own image. We can’t simply tell people to be honest, hard working, respectful, etc. We have to model it for them – that’s how they’ll know what those words mean, is through your actions. When providing guiding on parenting, I have often used the phrase “character is more caught than taught”. While it certainly is important for parents to model Godly character traits for their children, it is our calling as Christians to model Godly character traits in the workplace and our social circles as well.

In closing, I believe that God calls us to have an infectious love for Him, which is translated into loving and respecting His creation . . . and being exceptional in the ordinary things. What are the people you hang out with going to “catch” from you?

WHAT ARE YOU AFRAID OF?

By Robert J. Tamasy

Oct. 31 marks the annual observance of Halloween in the United States, when millions of children – and some men and women – put on costumes that range from cartoon and TV characters to witches and ghosts. For many people, it seems their objective is to appear as frightening as possible.

We do not need Halloween, however, to experience fear. Everyday life and work can be scary enough. Whether it involves the threat of earthquakes, hurricanes and tsunamis, or more constant worries caused by an uncertain world economy, there is much that can make us fearful and anxious.

In recent days, fear has influenced sharp ups and downs of the stock market, for example. Whether the market rises or falls on a particular day often has less to do with what is actually happening at that moment than what the so-called “experts” project – or fear – will occur in the foreseeable future. News reports, even rumors, can cause chaos among investors all around the world.

Each of us experiences fear from time to time. What are you most afraid of: The prospect of losing your job? Worries about a dramatic decline in business – or not having business rebound sufficiently after a downturn? Having a colleague chosen for a coveted promotion instead of yourself? Not being able to keep pace with a very formidable competitor? Losing a key staff member – or not being able to hire a suitable replacement for someone that has already left your team?

When we recognize circumstances are beyond our control and undesirable outcomes loom, fear can become a natural response. But what if we could have confidence that circumstances were under control, being guided by someone with our best interests in mind? Would that minimize – or even eliminate – fear you are experiencing? Take a look at several things the Bible has to say about fear and how we should deal with it:

We are not alone. When confronting difficult times, or anticipating adversity, one of our greatest fears is in having to deal with those circumstances alone. God has promised those trusting in Him that He will always be with them, whether they are in the workplace, traveling, at home, or anywhere they go. “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I still strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand” (Isaiah 41:10). “God has said, ‘Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you’” (Hebrews 13:5).

We have a guide through difficult times. It is comforting to be accompanied by someone that is familiar with the environment and context of challenges we are facing, just as a shepherd knows the sometimes dangerous terrain where he leads his sheep. “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me…” (Psalm 23:4).

Fear is not our only option. Trusting in God’s providence, protection and provision can give us assurance that no matter how daunting the present or future may seem, we do not need to be overcome by fear or despair. “For God has not given us a spirit of fear but of power and love and self-control” (2 Timothy 1:7). “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28).

Robert J. Tamasy is vice president of communications for Leaders Legacy, Inc., a non-profit corporation based in Atlanta, Georgia, U.S.A. A veteran journalist for 40 years, he is the author of Tufting Legacies (iUniverse); Business At Its Best: Timeless Wisdom from Proverbs for Today’s Workplace (River City Press); and has coauthored with David A. Stoddard, The Heart of Mentoring (NavPress). For more information, see www.leaderslegacy.com or his blogs, www.bobtamasy.blogspot.com and www.bobtamasy.wordpress.com.

Reflection/Discussion Questions

1. As you think about issues facing you at work today – or this week – what is it that you are most afraid of? What, if anything, can cause sleepless nights for you?

2. Do you agree with the view that fear can exert a strong influence in workplace decisions that we make? Why or why not?

3. How do you typically respond whenever you feel afraid, whether in a business or professional context, or in dealing with personal or family issues?

4. Which of the biblical perspectives on fear presented in this “Monday Manna,” if any, is most meaningful or helpful for you? Explain your answer.

NOTE: If you have a Bible and would like to review additional passages that relate to this topic, consider the following verses:

Proverbs 3:5-6, 16:4,9, 20:24; Jeremiah 29:11-13; Matthew 8:23-27, 14:22-31; Hebrews 10:30-31

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A Remnant That Prays

by Os Hillman

“One day Jesus was praying in a certain place. When He finished, one of His disciples said to Him, ‘Lord, teach us to pray, just as John taught his disciples.’” Luke 11:1

God is calling out a remnant of workplace believers throughout the world who understand the role of prayer in their work. These people have learned that prayer is not a five-minute exercise in the morning devotion time, but it is a vital strategic tool to discern and know God’s will and purposes in their work lives. You see they have learned that their business lives are their ministries to God and others.

These men and women have entered into covenant relationships with intercessory prayer partners who help discern the activities they should be involved in. Some even have paid staff, who intercede for the decisions and activities in which they will be involved. They are a small remnant of workplace believers who know that skill and technique are not enough to fulfill God’s purposes.

A servant of the Lord has well said: Prayer is the rail for God’s work. Indeed, prayer is to God’s will as rails are to a train. The locomotive is full of power: it is capable of running a thousand miles a day. But if there are no rails, it cannot move forward a single inch. If it dares to move without them, it will soon sink into the earth. It may be able to travel over great distances, yet it cannot go to any place where no rails have been laid. And such is the relation between prayer and God’s work. Without any doubt God is almighty and He works mightily, but He will not and cannot work if you and I do not labor together with Him in prayer, prepare the way for His will, and pray “with all prayer and supplication” (Eph. 6:18) to grant Him the maneuverability to so work. Many are the things, which God wills to do, and would like to do, but His hands are bound because His children do not sympathize with Him and have not prayed so as to prepare ways for Him. Let me say to all who have wholly given themselves to God: Do examine yourselves and see if in this respect you have limited Him day after day. [Watchman Nee, Let Us Pray (New York, New York: Christian Fellowship Publishers, 1977), 11.]

Is prayer a vital part of your strategic business practices? Put prayer on the front lines, instead of making it an afterthought. You will begin to see renewed power in your work life.