10 Bible Verses On How We Can Approach Our Studies and Jobs
Written by Mako Zuva
Whether you’re a student or a regular in the workplace, you are likely to face challenges in your studies and careers. These might be related to a number of issues, including dealing with imposter syndrome or consistently honouring God with your time.
In this article, we will explore how God teaches us to lead our lives, and how we can incorporate these teachings in a way that promises a smoother university experience, or purposeful career journey that aligns with God’s will for You.
Glorify the Lord in everything you do
Psalm 127: 1 NIV – Unless the Lord builds the house,
the builders labour in vain.1 Corinthians 10:31 NIV – So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.
Psalm 37:4 NIV – Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart.
As Christians, we are called to glorify God in everything we do, including our studies and careers. Our careers can reflect God’s purpose, but so too can ordinary moments in our day. This means creating the time to appreciate the presence and goodness of God in our lives each day.
However, amidst the social and academic pressures we may encounter at university or work, this might feel like a challenge. But, it doesn’t have to be.
Practically, this could look like dedicating 15 minutes in the mornings to reflecting on Scripture. It might be getting more involved at your local church, volunteering your time to effective charities, or spending time with a friend who is going through a difficult time. More Biblical reflection on serving others and helping those in need can be found here.
Your chosen form of dedication can be as long or as short as you wish – nothing ever goes unseen by God. What matters to Him is that our actions reflect an honest desire to embody the fruits of the Holy Spirit. The Bible tells us that these are ‘love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control’ (Galatians 5:22)
Be confident that you’re here for a purpose
Exodus 9:16 NIV – But I have raised you up for this very purpose, that I might show you my power and that my name might be proclaimed in all the earth.
Jeremiah 29:11 NIV – For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.
Matthew 5:16 NIV – In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.
For many of us at university or work, we might be met with imposter syndrome – feeling as though we are undeserving of our positions is a common phenomenon among students and professionals.
However, as Christians, it is important that we remind ourselves of how intentional God is. We are where we are because He has specifically placed us in our places of study or work for a purpose.
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So, in the face of external obstacles or our internal fears, we can be assured that God only has a plan for good in our lives, and will not abandon us in the face of difficulty.
As such, university or early-career opportunities should be a time where we have the confidence to explore new skills and build up our career capital. This will equip us with the tools we need to maximise our impact as Christian students and further on down the line throughout our careers.
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Call to Him in times of adversity
Romans 5: 3-4 NIV – Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.
Joshua 1:9 NIV – Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.
2 Corinthians 12:9 NIV – But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.”
As Christians, we are taught to expect to encounter difficulties, but when we do, to lift our heads up high in the knowledge that God uses these times to bring us closer to Him and to strengthen our character.
Whilst studying at university or working is indeed a blessing, it can also be a trying time. We may encounter situations which lead us to doubt God’s plan for our lives or even test our faith. You can read here on 3 big career uncertainties you can trust God with. To this end, the Bible encourages us to stand strong in our faith, remembering God’s goodness and the power He has to transform our lives.
We can also take inspiration from Jesus, who in His time of great suffering, prayed. God wants to hear from us not only when we’re full of joy, but also when we are distressed and full of despair. He wants to know us intimately – this means letting Him in even when times are tough.
Summing Up
We can glorify God in our studies and careers, but also in our ordinary day-to-day thoughts and actions.
We can be eager to build our career capital to have maximum impact later on in our studies and careers by not giving into self-doubt or imposter syndrome.
Pray when times are good, but also when they’re difficult. Remember that the world is broken, but getting better.
