#54 The Watchman in the Marketplace
Act Like Men – Men’s Leadership Podcast
Sponsored by Men’s Ministry Catalyst
In Biblical times the watchmen were stationed on the wall of the city, alert to any danger that might approach the city. The city walls provide protection against attack especially at night when it might be easiest for an enemy to try to sneak in.
Similarly, God has called us to be watchmen on the wall in our workplace. How do we call out danger – spiritual danger – in a way that we can make a positive difference spiritually in our marketplace? Can we do this without completely alienating ourselves, or does that matter? This is the challenge – one that we need to wrestle with so we are focused on being the man of God in the workplace that He can use to make a significant impact. There are so many in the marketplace that will never enter the doors of a church, so God has called us to make an impact where we work.
How do we do this effectively? What are some ways we can be a “watchman” in the
marketplace?
Let’s look at 5 things to consider on this great topic:
1. Recognize that God has called you to be a missionary in your workplace. A missionary
has a trade to make a living, however their primary purpose for being in the country and
in that specific workplace, is to be a light in the world and salt to create interest, and
ultimately share their story of God’s transforming power in their own life and how He
can transform their life as well.
2. Live a life of integrity within your marketplace. Let people see the difference in you
with your work ethic, quality of work, honesty, truthfulness, attitude, and of course
consistency. They will respect you even if they do not know you well or know of your
faith.
3. Build a caring relationship with those with whom we work. The old saying, “People
don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care”. You can speak
the truth in the presence of a genuine relationship and even if they do not agree,
because of your life of integrity, they respect you because of your relationship and the
consistent life you live.
4. Your identity as a man of God makes an impact – “in the world but not of the world” as
found in John 17. Many men find their identity in their position, the amount of money
they make, the car they drive, or any number of other ways. These are all “Outside In”
ways of identity, which is common, but shaky. As a man of God we can find our identity
in Christ and what He has done in us and for us =- this is an “Inside Out” identity, which
gives you a real chance to not be swayed by your surroundings but allow your identity to make a difference right where you are.
5. Know we may be persecuted for our faith in any number of ways – Matthew 10:22.
There are times that as a man of God, we have to take a stand. Sometimes these things
happen in the workplace This is an amazing truth – God has placed you right where you are in the marketplace because He needs a representative to share your story and allow the Holy Spirit to bring them to the Lord, because of your missionary presence.
Three Questions to ask yourself:
