How should Christians choose a career?

In Matthew 16:24-26. “Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man would come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me. For whosoever would save his life shall lose it: and whosoever shall lose his life for my sake shall find it. For what shall a man be profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and forfeit his life? or what shall a man give in exchange for his life?”

Jesus virtually explained what he meant when he said, “what shall a man be profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and forfeit his life?” When Jesus said whosoever shall save his life, he was describing those whose primary objective is worldly prosperity. But losing our lives for his sake means to take up our cross and follow Jesus. This lifestyle results in something far more important than gaining worldly prosperity. Jesus said it will gain us eternal  life.

This, however, does not mean we should not have a job or a profession. The early church in Thessalonica had a problem with some refusing to work. In 2 Thessalonians 3:10  Paul writes to them and says, “…If any will not work, neither let him eat.” 

He repeats a similar message in 1 Timothy 5:8.  “But if any provides not for his own, and specially his own household, he hath denied the faith, and is worse than an unbeliever.”

In harmonizing these scriptures we see that it is necessary that we each have jobs to provide the things needful in life. To have a career that you enjoy is good. But, a career should not be the focus of life as believers. Careers will end, jobs will change. But what we have in Christ will endure and lead to eternal life. What profession can make that promise?

Keep your career in its proper perspective and enjoy what you do. Make your true focus on your faith and the opportunities that God may provide for you. Look for opportunities to serve others. If there is a career that frees up some of your time for Christian service, that’s even better. But seek God’s direction and you will never regret it.

To learn more about how to see God’s will in your life listen to,

“Can Good Things Ever Be Bad?”

“How Do I Know My Decisions Are Right?