What do you think?
Rate this book
Christians on the Job: Winning at Work without Compromising Your Faith
In Matthew 10:16, Christ advised His Apostles to be "wise" and "innocent" as they go out "in the midst of wolves." This book shows Christians how to be wise and innocent as they work among people who sometimes behave like wolves. Temptation, greed, dishonesty, and misguided ambition have always presented challenges for Christians in the workplace. Add secular bias, political correctness, and persecution to the mix, and the modern workplace becomes a foreboding environment for Christians to navigate. This is so much the case, many Christians wonder if it is still possible to earn a living without compromising their faith.
Christians on the Job does more than demonstrate that Christians can stand firm when confronted with faith-related dilemmas in the workplace. It also demonstrates how to go about it. Using concepts illustrated with real-life examples, steps to implement in specific situations, life application questions, and resources for going deeper, Dr. Goetsch draws a clear map to ensure Christians can find their way and thrive on the job.
Christians on the Job does more than demonstrate that Christians can stand firm when confronted with faith-related dilemmas in the workplace. It also demonstrates how to go about it. Using concepts illustrated with real-life examples, steps to implement in specific situations, life application questions, and resources for going deeper, Dr. Goetsch draws a clear map to ensure Christians can find their way and thrive on the job.
- GenresChristian
263 pages, Hardcover
Published January 1, 2019
8 people are currently reading
19 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
January 25, 2019
A very well written, biblically sound book on the how a Christian should act in the workplace and the different temptations in that. I really enjoyed the book and its easy reading style. I would highly recommend!
August 23, 2019
This book is a helpful guide to help Christians think through and navigate the topic of living out your faith in the public eye - more specifically, the workplace. Rather than something to be lived out in the privacy of your home and church, the author argues that Christ affects every aspect of our lives, and therefore He impacts how we work and interact with others while at work. While carefully nuancing this point, it is made clear one’s Christian faith shouldn’t be “in your face” to the point you’re asking for trouble, but he uses the “wise as serpents but innocent as doves” mindset to thoughtfully and biblically counsel Christians who want to be a good example and witness at work when many around them don’t want to see or hear it.
January 5, 2019
This is a thorough, and very practical book that Christians in the workplace will find of much value. The author writes that the workplace is not always the friendliest environment for Christians. As a Christian in the workplace, your faith is going to be challenged. Count on it and do not be surprised or shocked when it happens. Consistently living your faith in the workplace is almost guaranteed to cause you problems from time to time. I know I ran into challenges to my faith in the workplace, and I would guess that you have as well. This is a book that I would recommend reading and discussing with co-workers in a book club setting. To facilitate that, the book includes helpful case studies about people the author has counseled over the years, discussion and review questions for groups and individuals.
The author writes that secular humanism and misguided political correctness are the new normal in the workplace. Instances of hostility toward Christianity are becoming increasingly common in the workplace. This hostility can and does sometimes cross a line and become persecution. Christians face the daily challenge of trying to do their jobs in ways that reflect the image of Christ while working with people who reject Christ. He wrote the book to help Christians in the workplace excel without compromising their faith.
Matthew 10:16 “Behold, I am sending you out as sheep in the midst of wolves, so be wise as serpents and innocent as doves”, is the theme of this book. Helping Christians accomplish this difficult but critical challenge is the author’s purpose. The strategies provided in the book are based on the teachings of Scripture. They have been put to the test in the workplace and proven to be effective for use by Christians facing the kinds of trials, tribulations, and dilemmas you may be facing in your job.
The author tells us that as Christians, we cannot separate our beliefs from our work, nor can we leave our beliefs on the doorstep of the office. Each day, working Christians must fight a two-pronged battle. On one hand, there is the personal battle to avoid succumbing to the temptations so prevalent in the workplace. On the other hand, we must also battle against the pressures of the workplace to engage in sinful behavior in the name of competitiveness, the bottom line, success, career advancement, job security, etc. As Christians, we can and should set examples of working in ways consistent with the teachings of Scripture and that reflect the image of Christ. As Christians in the workplace, a dilemma we often face is how to be faithful to our beliefs when working with people who don’t share those beliefs and when confronted with situations that challenge those beliefs. He tells us that no matter how successful you may be in your job, you have failed if your success comes by compromising your faith.
The author writes that the key to responding to pressure, rejection, and temptation in a biblical manner is to use an approach he calls the First-Response Model. The model summarizes the first steps Christians, should take when facing faith-related dilemmas in the workplace.
• Avoid responding out of anger, fear, or frustration.
• Pray for guidance.
• Seek guidance in Scripture.
• Seek the counsel of Godly men and women.
• Translate Scriptural guidance and wise counsel into workplace-appropriate practical action.
He states that we should go through each step in the model in the order recommended.
He writes about covert and overt Christians in the workplace. Covert Christians are believers who hide their faith when working among unbelievers. Another goal of this book is to demonstrate you don’t have to adopt the covert approach to keep your job or to build a successful career. Those Christians who consistently live their faith in all situations are referred to as overt Christians.
The author covers a number of helpful topics in this book, including servant leadership, how to be both wise and innocent when responding to faith-related challenges in the workplace, how to establish and maintain relationships with our unbelieving co-workers, how your Christ-like example can be a daily sermon for coworkers, and dealing with diversity in the workplace.
I highlighted a number of passages as I read the book. Below are 10 of my favorite quotes:
• No matter where you work or what kind of job you have, as a Christian you work first for the Lord and second for your employer.
• Quitting your job when the faith-related trials you are experiencing seem overwhelming should be viewed as an option of last resort, at least in most cases.
• There may be times when remaining faithful to your beliefs will jeopardize your job security or, at the very least, cause you emotional distress, a hard fact Christians must understand.
• When responding to faith-related challenges, the key is to make your point without making an enemy.
• There may be organizational policies against openly evangelizing on the job, but there can be no policies against setting a good Christian example.
• There may even be times when Christians will have to endure persecution for refusing to compromise.
• Setting a Christ-like example for coworkers depends on your ability to effectively translate Scripture into workplace-appropriate action. When translating Scripture into action, you must be both wise and innocent.
• Working with someone who holds a different worldview and validating that individual’s worldview are two different things.
• Christ expects us to not just tolerate our neighbors but to love them as He loves us.
• Expect adversity to be part of what you will deal with in the workplace.
The author writes that secular humanism and misguided political correctness are the new normal in the workplace. Instances of hostility toward Christianity are becoming increasingly common in the workplace. This hostility can and does sometimes cross a line and become persecution. Christians face the daily challenge of trying to do their jobs in ways that reflect the image of Christ while working with people who reject Christ. He wrote the book to help Christians in the workplace excel without compromising their faith.
Matthew 10:16 “Behold, I am sending you out as sheep in the midst of wolves, so be wise as serpents and innocent as doves”, is the theme of this book. Helping Christians accomplish this difficult but critical challenge is the author’s purpose. The strategies provided in the book are based on the teachings of Scripture. They have been put to the test in the workplace and proven to be effective for use by Christians facing the kinds of trials, tribulations, and dilemmas you may be facing in your job.
The author tells us that as Christians, we cannot separate our beliefs from our work, nor can we leave our beliefs on the doorstep of the office. Each day, working Christians must fight a two-pronged battle. On one hand, there is the personal battle to avoid succumbing to the temptations so prevalent in the workplace. On the other hand, we must also battle against the pressures of the workplace to engage in sinful behavior in the name of competitiveness, the bottom line, success, career advancement, job security, etc. As Christians, we can and should set examples of working in ways consistent with the teachings of Scripture and that reflect the image of Christ. As Christians in the workplace, a dilemma we often face is how to be faithful to our beliefs when working with people who don’t share those beliefs and when confronted with situations that challenge those beliefs. He tells us that no matter how successful you may be in your job, you have failed if your success comes by compromising your faith.
The author writes that the key to responding to pressure, rejection, and temptation in a biblical manner is to use an approach he calls the First-Response Model. The model summarizes the first steps Christians, should take when facing faith-related dilemmas in the workplace.
• Avoid responding out of anger, fear, or frustration.
• Pray for guidance.
• Seek guidance in Scripture.
• Seek the counsel of Godly men and women.
• Translate Scriptural guidance and wise counsel into workplace-appropriate practical action.
He states that we should go through each step in the model in the order recommended.
He writes about covert and overt Christians in the workplace. Covert Christians are believers who hide their faith when working among unbelievers. Another goal of this book is to demonstrate you don’t have to adopt the covert approach to keep your job or to build a successful career. Those Christians who consistently live their faith in all situations are referred to as overt Christians.
The author covers a number of helpful topics in this book, including servant leadership, how to be both wise and innocent when responding to faith-related challenges in the workplace, how to establish and maintain relationships with our unbelieving co-workers, how your Christ-like example can be a daily sermon for coworkers, and dealing with diversity in the workplace.
I highlighted a number of passages as I read the book. Below are 10 of my favorite quotes:
• No matter where you work or what kind of job you have, as a Christian you work first for the Lord and second for your employer.
• Quitting your job when the faith-related trials you are experiencing seem overwhelming should be viewed as an option of last resort, at least in most cases.
• There may be times when remaining faithful to your beliefs will jeopardize your job security or, at the very least, cause you emotional distress, a hard fact Christians must understand.
• When responding to faith-related challenges, the key is to make your point without making an enemy.
• There may be organizational policies against openly evangelizing on the job, but there can be no policies against setting a good Christian example.
• There may even be times when Christians will have to endure persecution for refusing to compromise.
• Setting a Christ-like example for coworkers depends on your ability to effectively translate Scripture into workplace-appropriate action. When translating Scripture into action, you must be both wise and innocent.
• Working with someone who holds a different worldview and validating that individual’s worldview are two different things.
• Christ expects us to not just tolerate our neighbors but to love them as He loves us.
• Expect adversity to be part of what you will deal with in the workplace.
February 3, 2022
I really wanted to like this book, having recently dealt with problems in the workplace, hoping to get a insight on how to deal with situations. The book is filled with generalities like Christians should be thankful for having a job, and letting God be in control, and dealing with difficult co-workers by using patience and self control. Not that this isn't good advice, but the book seems to point the finger at the reader if they lack or fail in these situations.
Suggestions like if everyone knows the person is a Christian in the workplace, if you work hard as working for God, everything will work out in the end with success and a better paying job or promotions., which doesn't always work that way. Even though the last chapter discusses cyber bullying and being threatened, the author assumes through the stories of people he counseled, that human resources departments will always work out in the end for the Christian's benefit. Another point the writer makes is that we should only quit a job if being treated badly as a last resort, because God could be placing you there for a reason.
I agree that God can do anything and has a plan, the general examples always end up happy. If this was always the case, every Christian would have promotions , a living salary, and a title with the respect of all the other coworkers.
I have been out of college for almost 20 years now, and have yet to find situations that the writer discusses that end up working for the better good, even when I worked in Christian companies. I am not saying he is wrong, but from my personal experiences, this book was a long struggle that made me feel guilty for not having success even though I have done many of the things consistently that the author details with no results, and having to move to different jobs.
Suggestions like if everyone knows the person is a Christian in the workplace, if you work hard as working for God, everything will work out in the end with success and a better paying job or promotions., which doesn't always work that way. Even though the last chapter discusses cyber bullying and being threatened, the author assumes through the stories of people he counseled, that human resources departments will always work out in the end for the Christian's benefit. Another point the writer makes is that we should only quit a job if being treated badly as a last resort, because God could be placing you there for a reason.
I agree that God can do anything and has a plan, the general examples always end up happy. If this was always the case, every Christian would have promotions , a living salary, and a title with the respect of all the other coworkers.
I have been out of college for almost 20 years now, and have yet to find situations that the writer discusses that end up working for the better good, even when I worked in Christian companies. I am not saying he is wrong, but from my personal experiences, this book was a long struggle that made me feel guilty for not having success even though I have done many of the things consistently that the author details with no results, and having to move to different jobs.
February 5, 2019
Christians on the Job addresses a real need with sound Biblical teaching coming from David Goetsch's wealth of experience. I hope the book has future editions with better editing as it's valuable truths are often buried in wordiness.
PROS:
This isn't a 'self-help' book - it is Biblical counsel.
It isn't nice ideas - it is time tested truth backed by the wealth of experience Goetsch shares from.
A few lines that struck me:
"The real challenge you face in the workplace...is your own propensity for sin." (5) True but Ouch!
"Character is the moral strength to reflect God's righteousness, justice, and fairness in all aspects of life." (76) That's a definition I can get my mind around!
Chapter 5 offers great advice from Goetsch's theme verse, Matthew 10:16 - be wise as serpents and innocent as doves - which he defines as the need to "confront sin in ways that are biblically sound (innocent) and workplace-appropriate (wise)" when we do this we "serve Christ and benefit our employers." (96) I have not seen this verse given this kind of practical application by anyone else.
And if everyone reads and practices his counsel on how to "Disagree without being disagreeable" (135-139) the world will be a better place. I hope he puts this chapter in booklet form and sends it to our politicians. On second thought, just tweet it to them 140 characters at a time.
CONS:
The book is wordy. It started in the introduction when I read "Our job is to guide you to the appropriate verses in the Bible and assist you in applying those verses in practical, helpful ways. The value of the counseling we provide is it guides Christians to the right places in the Bible and helps translate that guidance into practical action." (xvii) One of those sentences is not needed.
I thought this may have been a simple editing overlook, but it continued on and shaped the whole feel of the book. It feels like they set out to make a 250-page book and the content was being stretched to go the distance. This was a shame because there are some real gems in here.
Part of the wordiness is from the continual restating of the book's purpose. At the end of the redundant sentences just mentioned, it states "This is the goal of this book." The goal is set forth again in chapter 1, page 14, "The remaining chapters in this book provide specific strategies you can use for responding to the faith-related dilemmas you confront..." I was good with that. Give it to me Goetsch. But when he repeatedly told me the goal/theme/purpose as far in as chapter 5 (96) I felt bludgeoned. If you feel the need to keep overtly stating your purpose this far into the book you might be over communicating. Trust the book to speak its purpose for itself. If it doesn't, rewrite it.
Yet, the gems are in there. If you are having trouble applying and maintaining your faith on the job, wade through the words and get the gems - or hang in there and wait for the 2nd edition to come out in the hope that it has been better edited.
PROS:
This isn't a 'self-help' book - it is Biblical counsel.
It isn't nice ideas - it is time tested truth backed by the wealth of experience Goetsch shares from.
A few lines that struck me:
"The real challenge you face in the workplace...is your own propensity for sin." (5) True but Ouch!
"Character is the moral strength to reflect God's righteousness, justice, and fairness in all aspects of life." (76) That's a definition I can get my mind around!
Chapter 5 offers great advice from Goetsch's theme verse, Matthew 10:16 - be wise as serpents and innocent as doves - which he defines as the need to "confront sin in ways that are biblically sound (innocent) and workplace-appropriate (wise)" when we do this we "serve Christ and benefit our employers." (96) I have not seen this verse given this kind of practical application by anyone else.
And if everyone reads and practices his counsel on how to "Disagree without being disagreeable" (135-139) the world will be a better place. I hope he puts this chapter in booklet form and sends it to our politicians. On second thought, just tweet it to them 140 characters at a time.
CONS:
The book is wordy. It started in the introduction when I read "Our job is to guide you to the appropriate verses in the Bible and assist you in applying those verses in practical, helpful ways. The value of the counseling we provide is it guides Christians to the right places in the Bible and helps translate that guidance into practical action." (xvii) One of those sentences is not needed.
I thought this may have been a simple editing overlook, but it continued on and shaped the whole feel of the book. It feels like they set out to make a 250-page book and the content was being stretched to go the distance. This was a shame because there are some real gems in here.
Part of the wordiness is from the continual restating of the book's purpose. At the end of the redundant sentences just mentioned, it states "This is the goal of this book." The goal is set forth again in chapter 1, page 14, "The remaining chapters in this book provide specific strategies you can use for responding to the faith-related dilemmas you confront..." I was good with that. Give it to me Goetsch. But when he repeatedly told me the goal/theme/purpose as far in as chapter 5 (96) I felt bludgeoned. If you feel the need to keep overtly stating your purpose this far into the book you might be over communicating. Trust the book to speak its purpose for itself. If it doesn't, rewrite it.
Yet, the gems are in there. If you are having trouble applying and maintaining your faith on the job, wade through the words and get the gems - or hang in there and wait for the 2nd edition to come out in the hope that it has been better edited.
January 30, 2019
David Goetsch has done a wonderful job in “Christians on the Job: Winning at Work without Compromising Your Faith” of presenting the practical implementation of scriptural principles. A former United States Marine and currently one of the most widely published college professors in the United States, this book is both thorough and methodical, as you would expect from a Marine, and enlightening and challenging – exactly what you’d hope to read written by a professor.
Right from the Table of Contents, you can see the time, research, and diligence David has put forth in this book. With headings such as, “Temptation, Rejection, and Persecution in the Workplace” and “ Respond to Persecution and Cyber-Bullying in a Christ-like Manner,” you know immediately this book is timely for the warfare faced by so many Believers in the workplace.
In the introduction, David cautions Christians, “Your faith is going to be challenged in the workplace – count on it. …Secular humanism and misguided political correctness are the new normal in the workplace.” He then beautifully lays out a strategy to maintain your resolve in the face of testing and persecution in the proceeding chapters. Listing common scenarios relatable to most everyone reading, he urges the Believer to not retaliate or become like those oppressing and trying to diminish your faith, but rather to respond as Jesus did and to walk in love at all times, to choose what is right – what is pleasing to God - every time, and to continue to grow closer to the Lord despite your circumstances. David encourages us to stand out from the crowd by following in Jesus’ footsteps and going the extra mile to demonstrate integrity, trustworthiness, and the genuine love of the Father to even the most hostile and unlovable people. With real-world insights on crucial elements of behavior such as clear, concise communication, critical thinking, and creative action, he teaches us how to diffuse situations and to build and maintain positive relationships in the workplace. He finishes with a chapter on cyber-bullying and admonishes clear record-keeping such as screenshots of whatever dialogue or attack has taken place. He urges people to run TO the Lord, not away from Him during times of duress, and to seek help from others if feeling overwhelmed, suicidal, or otherwise unable to cope with the pressures from persecution coming your way.
Overall, this was an excellent book. I would highly recommend it for leaders and laymen alike: it is a must-read in this time of persecution against the Church, especially within the current political climate of the United States.
Right from the Table of Contents, you can see the time, research, and diligence David has put forth in this book. With headings such as, “Temptation, Rejection, and Persecution in the Workplace” and “ Respond to Persecution and Cyber-Bullying in a Christ-like Manner,” you know immediately this book is timely for the warfare faced by so many Believers in the workplace.
In the introduction, David cautions Christians, “Your faith is going to be challenged in the workplace – count on it. …Secular humanism and misguided political correctness are the new normal in the workplace.” He then beautifully lays out a strategy to maintain your resolve in the face of testing and persecution in the proceeding chapters. Listing common scenarios relatable to most everyone reading, he urges the Believer to not retaliate or become like those oppressing and trying to diminish your faith, but rather to respond as Jesus did and to walk in love at all times, to choose what is right – what is pleasing to God - every time, and to continue to grow closer to the Lord despite your circumstances. David encourages us to stand out from the crowd by following in Jesus’ footsteps and going the extra mile to demonstrate integrity, trustworthiness, and the genuine love of the Father to even the most hostile and unlovable people. With real-world insights on crucial elements of behavior such as clear, concise communication, critical thinking, and creative action, he teaches us how to diffuse situations and to build and maintain positive relationships in the workplace. He finishes with a chapter on cyber-bullying and admonishes clear record-keeping such as screenshots of whatever dialogue or attack has taken place. He urges people to run TO the Lord, not away from Him during times of duress, and to seek help from others if feeling overwhelmed, suicidal, or otherwise unable to cope with the pressures from persecution coming your way.
Overall, this was an excellent book. I would highly recommend it for leaders and laymen alike: it is a must-read in this time of persecution against the Church, especially within the current political climate of the United States.
February 12, 2019
Fantastic read. A must-read for all Christians because it provides a biblically-based methodology for interacting with one's business world in a God-like manner. The points raised in the text were easy to understand, and each point was well-developed with personal examples and Bible references.
The gist of this read is a focus on Matthew 10:16, "behold, I am sending you out as sheet in the midst of wolves, so be wise as serpents and innocent as doves" (English Standard Version). The text begins by explaining that this does not mean one is to be a doormat for everyone's outbursts. Instead, the Christian is to respond firmly with an attitude of love. This means not trying to lower the other person, but that the goal is to be an example in all that one does for Christ.
The text then delves into various means of being wise and innocent within the workplace. Topics range from how to react when one's faith is challenged at work, being a servant leader, building and maintaining positive work relationships, treating one's job as one's ministry, approaching diversity, coping during trying situations, and work-related persecution. Hot topics in the text include the following: how to work with those identifying with the LGBTQ spectrum, cyber-bullying, and how to take legal action if the circumstance warrants it. Overall, Dr. Goetsch has presented a well-rounded book for the Christian working within the secular world (so for all Christians)!
The book was easy to read. Each point was elaborated upon with real-life examples and Bible verses were integrated to elevate the findings. The text also included case studies at the end of each chapter to challenge the reader's personal reactions. This book could easily be adapted to be part of a Christian business education program (I have recommended it personally to my Doctorate of Business Administration program)!
The gist of this read is a focus on Matthew 10:16, "behold, I am sending you out as sheet in the midst of wolves, so be wise as serpents and innocent as doves" (English Standard Version). The text begins by explaining that this does not mean one is to be a doormat for everyone's outbursts. Instead, the Christian is to respond firmly with an attitude of love. This means not trying to lower the other person, but that the goal is to be an example in all that one does for Christ.
The text then delves into various means of being wise and innocent within the workplace. Topics range from how to react when one's faith is challenged at work, being a servant leader, building and maintaining positive work relationships, treating one's job as one's ministry, approaching diversity, coping during trying situations, and work-related persecution. Hot topics in the text include the following: how to work with those identifying with the LGBTQ spectrum, cyber-bullying, and how to take legal action if the circumstance warrants it. Overall, Dr. Goetsch has presented a well-rounded book for the Christian working within the secular world (so for all Christians)!
The book was easy to read. Each point was elaborated upon with real-life examples and Bible verses were integrated to elevate the findings. The text also included case studies at the end of each chapter to challenge the reader's personal reactions. This book could easily be adapted to be part of a Christian business education program (I have recommended it personally to my Doctorate of Business Administration program)!
April 1, 2019
The increase of secularization in American culture poses unique challenges for Christians seeking to honor their Lord in their earthly vocations. In this helpful and practical book, David Goetsch explains how follows of Jesus can navigate the difficulties of serving Christ in an environment often hostile to the Faith. Covering topics such as temptation, compromise, persecution, diversity, friendship, and cyber-bullying, the book is packed full of real life illustrations and specific applications about how to be as “wise as serpents and innocent as doves” (Matthew 10:16). The question this book seeks to answer is how do we work with unbelievers without falling prey to their worldview and lifestyle?
One weakness here is the failure to begin with a positive statement on the goodness of work and the legitimacy of earthly vocation, situating our work in the context of God’s good creation and all people being made in the image of God. Since the book begins with examples of antagonistic environments, it takes a combative tone throughout. For example, we are warned early about the danger of “being devoured by predatory coworkers” (pg. xx). The focus is placed on where the believer and unbeliever differ. Certainly believers and unbelievers differ in their basic outlook on life, but since both believers and unbelievers live in God’s world and are made in God’s image, there is common ground. The book lacks a creation-affirming view of God’s common grace.
In spite of this weakness, I would still recommend Christians who are working in environments hostile to their faith to consult this book as it is full of wholesome biblical counsel and real-life illustrations.
One weakness here is the failure to begin with a positive statement on the goodness of work and the legitimacy of earthly vocation, situating our work in the context of God’s good creation and all people being made in the image of God. Since the book begins with examples of antagonistic environments, it takes a combative tone throughout. For example, we are warned early about the danger of “being devoured by predatory coworkers” (pg. xx). The focus is placed on where the believer and unbeliever differ. Certainly believers and unbelievers differ in their basic outlook on life, but since both believers and unbelievers live in God’s world and are made in God’s image, there is common ground. The book lacks a creation-affirming view of God’s common grace.
In spite of this weakness, I would still recommend Christians who are working in environments hostile to their faith to consult this book as it is full of wholesome biblical counsel and real-life illustrations.
March 29, 2019
Professor Goetsch has produced an exceptionally helpful book for Christians in the workplace facing all sorts of challenges and not knowing how to respond. Each chapter takes on a different theme and has a "how-to" set of actions you can take with ample examples. I think many of the principles of the book can also apply not only in the workplace but well beyond!
The book is organized around 12 all too typical difficulties Christians face with coworkers, bosses in the secular workplace. Each one is introduced by a story case example easy to relate to, followed by a very hands-on biblical and relational approach with steps the reader can take in response.
Themes include servant leadership, setting a positive example when others around you are not, learning not to hide your faith, setting an example of caring, going beyond tolerating difficult people, approaching diversity issues with wisdom, cooping with real frustrations and discouragement, responding to cyber-bullying, and my favorite chapter, approaching your job from the perspective that it is in a very real way your ministry.
Highly recommended that workplace Christians have this on their shelf or better yet anywhere you can make quick access to it on a regular basis while on the job. It also has a helpful group discussion guide for every chapter. I will be asking one of our small groups to use it at our church.
The book is organized around 12 all too typical difficulties Christians face with coworkers, bosses in the secular workplace. Each one is introduced by a story case example easy to relate to, followed by a very hands-on biblical and relational approach with steps the reader can take in response.
Themes include servant leadership, setting a positive example when others around you are not, learning not to hide your faith, setting an example of caring, going beyond tolerating difficult people, approaching diversity issues with wisdom, cooping with real frustrations and discouragement, responding to cyber-bullying, and my favorite chapter, approaching your job from the perspective that it is in a very real way your ministry.
Highly recommended that workplace Christians have this on their shelf or better yet anywhere you can make quick access to it on a regular basis while on the job. It also has a helpful group discussion guide for every chapter. I will be asking one of our small groups to use it at our church.
March 21, 2019
This is a solid book that does a great job in exploring the complexities of navigating the secular workforce. What I particularly appreciated about this book is the openness about hardship. Too many books in this field assume that working ethically will automatically result in success; sometimes that isn't the case. In fact, sometimes doing what is right will lead to job loss and suffering, but that does't mean we should follow the path of righteousness.
The only reason I am not giving this book five stars is because it tended to draw out some topics longer than needed. More concise writing would have been an asset. I also felt that the author underestimated the complexities involved in political involvement. The author assumed that Christians in politics is automatically a good thing, but did not take into account the different possible views even within the Christian framework, as well as the differences in abilities.
Aside from the above, however-it is an excellent book! I recommend it to anyone struggling with navigating difficult situations in the workforce, or to anyone who wants to look for ways to enhance their impact on the world at work!
The only reason I am not giving this book five stars is because it tended to draw out some topics longer than needed. More concise writing would have been an asset. I also felt that the author underestimated the complexities involved in political involvement. The author assumed that Christians in politics is automatically a good thing, but did not take into account the different possible views even within the Christian framework, as well as the differences in abilities.
Aside from the above, however-it is an excellent book! I recommend it to anyone struggling with navigating difficult situations in the workforce, or to anyone who wants to look for ways to enhance their impact on the world at work!
April 17, 2019
This book takes a frank look at the realities of everyday workplaces and the common issues that Christians (should) struggle with in those contexts. I say "should" because Goetsch also points out that it's easy to give in to the pressures of cutting corners or fudging numbers or simply not being Christlike and friendly in workplace interactions. This isn't a call to workplace morality; Goetsch's book challenges heart motivations and eternal perspective of those who call themselves Christ-followers.
Overall, it's well-organized, Biblically based, and culturally relevant. I do agree with other reviewers have pointed out the wordiness of the book. The message could have been relayed to the reader in much fewer pages.
(I received this book for free in return for a fair and honest review.)
Overall, it's well-organized, Biblically based, and culturally relevant. I do agree with other reviewers have pointed out the wordiness of the book. The message could have been relayed to the reader in much fewer pages.
(I received this book for free in return for a fair and honest review.)
December 5, 2019
This a highly relevant and valuable book for 21st century Western culture. Written by a professor with many years of counseling experience, the book offers sound, Biblical ways to deal with work situations that involve temptation and/or persecution. Thankfully, I have not had a lot of bad experiences with my faith being directly attacked. I struggle more with being oppressed with the secular humanism and having to be regularily exposed to books that are against God's ways. That is why I read this-to glean advice from other Christians on how to faithfully thrive in the workplace.
I recommend to those who deal with people on a regular basis...so everyone!
I recommend to those who deal with people on a regular basis...so everyone!
April 2, 2019
There are many books on faith in the workplace but few as practical and focused as David Goetsch book. Biblically sound, with a practitioners insight into the challenges, temptations and sufferings of believers in the marketplace; this book is a must read for those serious about living out their faith through their work. However, apart from grace-filled common sense, there is also a fair amount of encouragement and inspiration that renders joy on the job for anyone willing to give Goetsch wisdom a go. Very well written.
December 14, 2021
This was a great book on being Christian in the workplace.
It was a little high level, and I would have liked it to go into more detail, but all-in-all it had some great points to keep me focused on keeping God first!
3.9/5
It was a little high level, and I would have liked it to go into more detail, but all-in-all it had some great points to keep me focused on keeping God first!
3.9/5
January 19, 2019
Great book founded in biblical truth! Spot on and something all Christians should read to help clarify what their role in the workplace is. Thank you for writing!!
April 4, 2019
If you are an employee, a manager, a team leader, the CEO or the custodian
--and a Christian, David Goetsch is going to encourage you on every page to do your work as unto the Lord--no matter the challenges you encounter.
As one of the most widely published college professors in the US (this is his seventy-third book), Goetsch has over 50 years of experience in academia, counseling, and ministry, after working in the private sector and serving in the US Marines.
If the title didn't grab your attention, perhaps thinking about what committed Christians are facing in the marketplace drew you in. Goetsch's thesis is a response to the question, "How can I stand firm in the faith when working with wolves?"
Using Jesus' words in Matthew 10:16, "Behold, I am sending you out as sheep in the midst of wolves, so be wise as serpents and innocent as doves," as his launching point, Goetsch's purpose is to help Christians accomplish the difficult, but critical challenge of being "wise" and "innocent" in every work situation. And to do so in a Biblical way, which means to work first for the Lord and second for one's employer, which begins with authentically living a Christ-life in the way one does her work and relates to her co-workers.
In twelve chapters, Goetsch introduces an issue, and then presents strategies which are workplace appropriate and biblically sound, strategies which will help employees to excel and to benefit their employers. Each chapter closes with case studies and discussion questions, plus review questions for groups or individuals. Multiple examples of both positive and negative workplace experience help the reader to see the strategies in action.
As I was nearing the end of the text, I received an email from a friend about a difficult workplace experience she was encountering--a supervisor being unfair, critical, giving a low annual review, etc. No longer were the situations mere textbook examples: they became real for me.
In addition, I realize that all I had read would easily apply in all relationship situations--and benefit everyone involved (on a committee, with the HOA, school board, city council). This would be good for a seminar or class on Christians in the marketplace. I'd recommend this book to every Christian employee or employer.
This book was presented to me for a free review by Salem Books. Thanks!
P.S. Goetsch’s best advice is for the Christian to set a Christ-like example by how you treat people, how you do your work, how you make decisions, how you face adversity, solve problems, and conduct yourself. He repeatedly stresses developing the following character qualities: integrity, consistent honesty, trustworthiness, fairness, self-discipline, commitment, sacrifice, service, caring, perseverance, and love—with these in mind, you will be less likely to be tempted or pressured to do that which would violate your faith and more likely to stand firm when your emotions tell you to walk out!
--and a Christian, David Goetsch is going to encourage you on every page to do your work as unto the Lord--no matter the challenges you encounter.
As one of the most widely published college professors in the US (this is his seventy-third book), Goetsch has over 50 years of experience in academia, counseling, and ministry, after working in the private sector and serving in the US Marines.
If the title didn't grab your attention, perhaps thinking about what committed Christians are facing in the marketplace drew you in. Goetsch's thesis is a response to the question, "How can I stand firm in the faith when working with wolves?"
Using Jesus' words in Matthew 10:16, "Behold, I am sending you out as sheep in the midst of wolves, so be wise as serpents and innocent as doves," as his launching point, Goetsch's purpose is to help Christians accomplish the difficult, but critical challenge of being "wise" and "innocent" in every work situation. And to do so in a Biblical way, which means to work first for the Lord and second for one's employer, which begins with authentically living a Christ-life in the way one does her work and relates to her co-workers.
In twelve chapters, Goetsch introduces an issue, and then presents strategies which are workplace appropriate and biblically sound, strategies which will help employees to excel and to benefit their employers. Each chapter closes with case studies and discussion questions, plus review questions for groups or individuals. Multiple examples of both positive and negative workplace experience help the reader to see the strategies in action.
As I was nearing the end of the text, I received an email from a friend about a difficult workplace experience she was encountering--a supervisor being unfair, critical, giving a low annual review, etc. No longer were the situations mere textbook examples: they became real for me.
In addition, I realize that all I had read would easily apply in all relationship situations--and benefit everyone involved (on a committee, with the HOA, school board, city council). This would be good for a seminar or class on Christians in the marketplace. I'd recommend this book to every Christian employee or employer.
This book was presented to me for a free review by Salem Books. Thanks!
P.S. Goetsch’s best advice is for the Christian to set a Christ-like example by how you treat people, how you do your work, how you make decisions, how you face adversity, solve problems, and conduct yourself. He repeatedly stresses developing the following character qualities: integrity, consistent honesty, trustworthiness, fairness, self-discipline, commitment, sacrifice, service, caring, perseverance, and love—with these in mind, you will be less likely to be tempted or pressured to do that which would violate your faith and more likely to stand firm when your emotions tell you to walk out!
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews