I work for a company that employs people of many different faiths and backgrounds. As in any secular workplace, matters of embracing diversity and showing mutual respect are highly encouraged. I like to take advantage of this, allowing myself the freedom to be a Christian at work unashamed.
Coming from an evangelistic background, I’ve struggled at times with how and how much to witness to people at work. I’ve come to the conclusion that a gospel presentation and request for a decision every time I talk to someone is not the only mechanism for witnessing to others. There is a time and a place for those particular discussions, but this is not the only form of witnessing.
Here are five ways to witness at your workplace:
1. Love the people you work with.
I know this one is not always fun, but it crucial to showing other people who Christ is. Trust me, I am not a people person by nature, but I have learned to be for the sake of being Jesus to those who may not yet know Him yet. Sure, that one guy two cubes down from you is super annoying. The gal in the office next door is always complaining. Get to know people. Show them you care. They will know we are Christians by our love.
2. Decorate your space with Jesus.
This may seem kind of cheesy, but I like it because it’s easy! I have a daily calendar with Bible verses on it. I also have a little sign that says Jesus Loves You. My coffee mug has a verse on it. If you’re living out your faith, you will seem different to people. As people stop by, these are the little things that they will notice. In time, they will probably start to connect the dots.
3. Talk about your faith.
This doesn’t necessarily mean you have to go into the Four Spiritual Laws or try to lead someone to Christ, but you don’t have to sensor all things spiritual from your conversations. When you’re sitting around small talking about your life and people ask you what you’re doing this weekend, tell them you’re going to church. Talk about how the new dessert you tried to make for Bible study went horribly wrong. Tell people you will pray for them.
4. Shine with integrity.
Work like you’re getting ready to present your project or deliverable to God in person! Extinguish negativity and gossip around you by saying something positive or changing the subject (this one is not always easy for me!). Be honest and truthful in your communication and in the midst of office politics. If you tell someone you are going to be somewhere or do something, make sure to follow through. You represent the God of the universe!
5. Be real.
There are lots of Christian stereotypes out there and you never know which one your co-workers will categorize you as. While you probably fall into some of them, you can challenge others simply by being real. I am myself. I’m not trying to be perfect or better than anyone else. I make mistakes. I’m a human that forgets things (like going to meetings that I scheduled!). I can get annoyed or frustrated sometimes. I find silly things funny. I get tired. People need to see that Christians are people, too!
How do you witness to the people in your workplace?