Working with Purpose: Beyond Commendation

by: Micah A. Tecne

Who doesn’t want a promotion? Most of us desire to excel and to be commended for our hard work. It is an affirmation of our sense of worth and purpose. We work hard, extending working hours and pushing ourselves to do better to be noticed and commended, but what if we find ourselves in a situation where we receive the opposite of our expectations? Will we continually dedicate ourselves to work? 

In the history of Israel, Joseph, a faithful son and brother to his siblings, despite his pure heart, was despised and unappreciated by his brothers. He was mistreated and sold to a foreign land. He became a slave to high-ranking officials and was later promoted because he was one of the most trusted workers. Yet history repeats itself; he was falsely accused and imprisoned. Because of his dedication and pure heart, he was commended by the warden, which made him the most trusted person in the prison. He was faithful to every task given to him regardless of his position. He remained steadfast and honest in his work. He has valued every opportunity to serve unblemished. After years of genuine service, he was rewarded with freedom, commendation, fame, and favor; he was promoted to one of the high-ranking officials of Egypt, a foreign land.

His life is an example of valuing work regardless of what position we are in. We may find ourselves overwhelmed by many expectations, comparisons, insecurities, and competition. Still, as we remain faithful to what is entrusted, we will soon be noticed at the right time. We only need to be consistent and unwavering. People may not notice and commend our efforts, but a righteous and just God will always see it, and at the right time, we will be exalted as we humble ourselves. 

Let us be true and faithful to whatever is entrusted to us. The Apostle Paul encourages us that whatever we do, work at it with all our hearts, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since we know that we will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord we are serving. 

Remember, while recognition and advancement are welcome aspects of work, true fulfillment comes from finding purpose in the act of serving itself.  Just as Joseph persevered and excelled regardless of his circumstances, we too can find meaning and satisfaction in our work by aligning it with our values, contributing to a greater good, and embracing growth opportunities.  Let us value our work for its inherent worth, and the intrinsic motivation it provides, and serve with dedication and excellence, both for ourselves and for something larger than ourselves. Valuing our work is valuing the purpose the Master has placed on us. Let us serve beyond human commendation!

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