A Changed Life

I was recently offered a job that involved much more responsibility, management and people skills. It was exactly what I had wanted! Two years earlier I would have jumped at the chance, but now I wasn't sure. What had changed?

My career had been one of steady advancement. Not really ambitious, I always did my best, was interested in new responsibilities, and took the positions I was offered. Now, I hesitated at this incredible opportunity. I liked working with people and was interested in management. Was I afraid? Was the job too much for me, or was it something else?

Not long before, at a FAW event on Call, I explored my motivations at work. Frustrated that three consecutive management positions had disappeared due to failed marketing, I still wanted the chance. I was ambitious. In a small group, I found ego and my need to please drove these ambitions.

Conscious of this I was somehow freed from work ambitions. Back home I found I enjoyed my job. It was enough. It allowed time to focus on the recently formed Arizona FAW team, my two boys and my wife.

I spoke with her about the opportunity and she didn't discourage me. It would be good for my career. Still I wasn't sure. Was I considering it for her? For myself? What should I do God?

That night I had a dream. I was in a race. I was coasting along with some friends, aware that some people were taking short cuts to win while others were running their best. As I approached halfway I realized I needed to run. I wasn't doing what I could. Short cuts were not right but holding back was not enough.

What an incredible sign! Was it right? What a coincidence my small group was meeting that morning. They affirmed that using my talents for good is what God wants. Holding back or being complacent is poor stewardship of those gifts and my time. While my family and other interests are important, my professional work must also count. I decided to take the job and it has been one of the most invigorating decisions I have ever made.

Through Faith at Work I have discovered many pieces of myself that had been hidden or buried. I have examined the proud, hurt and fearful places in my life, discovering where I hold back from giving all of myself to God. Encouraged by the people of FAW I have expanded my spiritual disciplines and now work with a spiritual guide, play the flute after seventeen years, attend a regular small group, and practice daily prayer for others.

I have contributed to the Change Lives campaign because Faith at Work has helped change my life. I want to support and expand this ministry to enable others, as I have been enabled, to enter into a more conscious journey with God.

Note: For more information about the Change Lives campaign.