What Do You Do?

"What do you do for a living?" is a common question we often ask one another. Whether you have a great answer to that question ("I have an important job!") or a not-so-great answer ("I'm unemployed!"), the problem lies in the fact that we tend to define ourselves by what we do instead of who we are as a person. This means that our self-worth is often tied to our performance, rather than being a reflection of our identity as a son or daughter of God.

Justin S. Holcomb, a man with many jobs, has unpacked this issue and offers a different perspective. Instead of viewing work as a ladder to self-worth, where we are either climbing up or falling off, Justin describes a third way – one where work, even in a broken world, is a part of what it means to be made in the image and likeness of God, and a tool to help us grow in our love for God and others.

Work is not just a means to an end, but rather a reflection of our God-given purpose and a way to serve others. When we define ourselves by our work, we run the risk of either feeling superior to those who have "less important" jobs or feeling inferior if we are unemployed or struggling in our careers. This narrow view of work can lead to feelings of inadequacy and a distorted sense of self-worth.

In contrast, Justin encourages us to see work as a way to glorify God and love our neighbor. Whether we have a high-powered career or a more humble job, our work can be a form of worship and an expression of our faith. By shifting our perspective, we can find fulfillment and purpose in our work, regardless of its perceived status or financial rewards.

Moreover, Justin reminds us that our identity is not rooted in what we do, but in who we are as children of God. Our self-worth is not dependent on our performance or achievements, but on the unconditional love and grace of our heavenly Father. This understanding can free us from the trap of defining ourselves by our work and allow us to approach our vocations with a renewed sense of purpose and joy.

In a world that often places a high value on career success and financial stability, Justin's message is a refreshing and liberating one. He invites us to reframe our understanding of work and to find our identity in the love and acceptance of God, rather than in the ever-changing and often unpredictable circumstances of our careers.

By embracing this third way of viewing work, we can find greater fulfillment, meaning, and purpose in our daily tasks, whether they are grand or seemingly mundane. We can approach our labors with a sense of gratitude, knowing that our work is a reflection of our faith and a way to love and serve others.

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