Spiritual Tune Up: “When Co-Workers Slack Off: Finding Grace When You Want to Snap”
by Admin · Published · Updated
Introduction
We’ve all been there: working hard while “Susan from Accounting” spends her day gossiping and taking extra-long coffee breaks, yet somehow manages to swoop in with seniority when things go wrong. Younger workers often get the brunt of this behavior, wondering if their efforts even matter. But before you draft a resignation letter or start fantasizing about throwing Susan’s coffee cup out the window, let’s see what God has to say about dealing with difficult co-workers.
Bible Story: The Parable of the Laborers in the Vineyard (Matthew 20:1-16 KJV)
Imagine being one of the laborers who worked all day in the hot sun, only to see the latecomers receive the same pay. Sound familiar? The early workers grumbled, but the vineyard owner reminded them that he was being fair and generous. This story teaches us that our work is ultimately for God, not for recognition from others—even Susan.
Real-World Example
Take Ryan, a 22-year-old office newbie. His senior colleague, “Larry the Legend,” had mastered the art of looking busy—endless meetings that produced nothing. When Ryan’s hard work earned praise, Larry took credit. Ryan was frustrated but decided to let his work speak for itself. Eventually, leadership noticed Ryan’s consistent effort and promoted him. Larry? He was left spinning in his web of coffee breaks.
Reflection or Journal Question
God calls us to work diligently as if we’re serving Him directly. It’s tough to keep your cool when others take advantage, but remember, God sees everything. Susan and Larry might win temporary victories, but your reward comes from the Lord. The Lord can promote you by giving you a better job with a great recommendation.
“How can I reflect God’s love and patience in my interactions with difficult co-workers, and what practical steps can I take to maintain my peace and integrity in challenging situations?”
Action Steps for Staying Positive _Pray about the situation. God is listening
Redirect Your Focus -Keep your focus on doing excellent work as a reflection of God’s glory. Don’t gossip or bring others into the situation-this shows strength.
Remember, when you do your best, things work out for your best. Many people found success in being fired or quitting with a plan.
Keep quiet regardless of others’ actions so you are not tricked or angered into a trap. Don’t leave work mad and take it out on others when you get home. Especially children.
Say to yourself: “I’m doing this work for God, not for man.”
Set Boundaries kindly but firmly and Communicate Calmly. If you need to address the person do so in private. Take them to lunch away from the workplace.
Say to yourself: “I will handle this with grace and professionalism.”
If a co-worker’s actions affect your work, address the issue respectfully to your supervisor or lead person. Make them aware of the problem. Document interactions if necessary and focus on maintaining peace and having a good attitude and relations with others.
Bible Verses to Memorize on Dealing with Difficult Co-Workers
Colossians 3:23 (KJV)
“And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men.”
Reflection: Remind yourself that your work is ultimately for God, not for human approval. This perspective can help you stay focused and motivated even in challenging environments.
Romans 12:18 (KJV)
“If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men.”
Reflection: Seek to create peace in the workplace by responding with patience and kindness. You can’t control others, but you can control how you respond.
Matthew 5:44 (KJV)
“But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you.”
Reflection: Pray for your co-workers, especially those who test your patience. Asking God to bless them can transform your heart and attitude toward them.
Conclusion
Dealing with slackers who hold onto authority like a crown can test anyone’s patience. But take heart—God sees your integrity and rewards it in ways that matter. So, let Susan sip her coffee while you rise higher. And if she asks for help with her “busy” schedule, just smile and say, “I’m too swamped working heartily unto the Lord!”
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CALL TO SALVATION
John 3:16 “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.
Romans 10:9-10 9That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. 10For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness, and with the mouth, confession is made unto salvation
John 3:5-6 5Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. 6That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is the Spirit.
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