Christian education can be transformational. As Christians, God is supposed to be at the center of our lives, which means we should consider Him in everything we do, including our education. Proverbs 16:16 reminds us that education is more valuable than material things. Some of the great benefits of Christian education is that it shapes you spiritually, academically, and in your skills and worldviews. Leaping a Christian education can help you reach your God-given potential. Another added benefit of Christian education is that it can help you in your career and in the workplace. Applying your Christian education to your vocation will accomplish your job's responsibilities and goals while also serving as a role model to others. Here are six ways a Christian education can serve you in the workplace.
Your tasks are viewed through God’s lens, not your own.
Colossians 3:1-4 says, “If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth. For you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. When Christ, who is your life appears, then you also will appear with him in glory.” One of Christian education's great values is that you view life through God’s lens, not your own. You will begin to apply that bigger picture to the workplace. You will begin to look at your career as a way to amplify the Kingdom of God. You will focus less on the tasks you have to do each day and more on how you can reflect God in the tasks you do.
You will push yourself.
Think of a time when you felt totally alive. It may have been when you created something difficult for the first time, met someone you had a tremendous connection with, or accomplished a major goal. The joy you experienced resulted from you pushing yourself and taking a risk, beyond what you thought you could do. It may have taken something out of you, but the fulfillment you received in return was incredibly valuable. Jesus calls us to push ourselves beyond our daily duties. Christian education will push you to work harder, which enforces growth. You will continue advancing in your career because you give out of your abundance with those you work with, not because your job mandates it, but because you feel called to do it.
Teamwork is emphasized.
The ability to work well with others is imperative, particularly in your career. Christian education emphasizes teamwork in a variety of ways. Christian schools emphasize collaborative projects along with community service. Ultimately, students are encouraged to help each other. There is a focus on service, emphasizing volunteering time and other important resources to those in need to foster a sense of empathy and social responsibility. The same applies to the workplace. Philippians 2:4 says, “Let each of you look not only to his interests but also to the interests of others.” You can apply that critical experience when you’re collaborating in the workplace.
You develop lifetime connections.
Christian education will provide a place for you to develop lifetime connections with those who are also led by Christ. These connections can’t be downplayed. These friends care about your well-being and will walk with you on your faith journey. You will also encounter professors and advisors who find your development in Christ so important. That will help you tap into your career and spiritual gifts. These relationships will follow you in the workplace, providing a space for networking and professional development.
You model leadership.
Principled leaders are those who communicate their values, making decisions guided by their values. They consistently live out their values in a transparent way. Christian education provides a space for principled leadership. You can articulate the relevance and application of a Christian view of your position. When you begin to embody the principles of courage, giving, and integrity, you inspire those you work with. You will begin to feel called to reach for the bar that you set.
You work humbly and modestly.
The Bible says, “Don’t be selfish; don’t try to impress others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourselves. Don’t look out only for your interests, but take an interest in others, too” (Philippians 2:2-4). Being humble matters, especially in the workplace. There are times when successful people get caught up in their achievements. Yet, Christian business leaders are generally humble, being sure not to let pride get in the way of their decision-making. They are also more motivated to empower others, just as Jesus did through His teachings. A faithful leader is aware that they have a lot to learn, even from those around him. As a Christian leader, you will remain modest in your knowledge and humble in your know-how.
The benefits of Christian education are endless. The call of a Christian school is the Great Commission in Matthew 28:19-20, where Jesus commands His disciples, “Go therefore and make disciples,” teaching them in the way of Christ. When we are disciples of Christ, we apply biblical principles to our own lives, while also modeling and guiding others to live out their lives righteously as followers of Jesus. Going to a Christian school provides a space for educational discipleship that can be applied in your relationships repeatedly in the workplace. Are you ready to answer God’s call?
Explore these great options for Christian education:
Mount Vernon Nazarene University
