Christians Working
in or
Supporting Manufacturing [CWSM.org]

Showing Your Christian Faith

Manufacturing is not always a good environment for your Christian walk. There are many distractions, many non-Christians and temptations to turn away (even if for a moment) from Christ. If others find out you are a Christian, you are often subjected to ridicule,  harassment, and sometimes even violence. So what can you do?

First and foremost live the faith! Despite all of the above, live your life for Christ! Okay, you know that. But how does one do this in a shop environment? How can your shop walk show Christ?

Colossians 3:22-24 says:

"Servants, obey in all things your masters according to the flesh; not with eyeservice, as menpleasers; but in singleness of heart, fearing God:

And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men;

Knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ."

Let's try to apply this to employees:

Practical Application:

I place my commitment in a hierarchy. First and foremost, there is God. He is the highest level of my commitment. Second is my family. Third is my profession. Fourth is my industry. Fifth is my employer. Sixth is me. What are your priorities?

I let my employer know that if I am required to do anything against the higher levels of commitment, I will not do it! Few of my employers have been Christian, but none have ever given me any static over my hierarchy. I had one comment that although he felt my Christian beliefs were misguided, he liked my "Christian work ethic". What about you?

When we are asked to do something by our supervisor, how do we respond? According to the above scripture, we should complete the task to the best of our ability. Each piece of work should be our "best". After all, Christ's reputation is on the line. 

Your co-workers watch you...constantly! They should see the Christian work ethic in your behavior. They should see you modeling Christ in your behavior. They should see something positive and different about you. This behavior also includes not complaining about the company or your supervisors. Disagreeing with them is one thing. But DON'T make a public scene over it. The only time to publicly voice your disagreement is when the employer is violating higher levels of commitment. 

Workers who exhibit Christian traits might come under some ridicule, but in the long run they will be respected, admired and consulted more often. But remember, Christ met with stiff resistance (to the point of death). If you are not running into any resistance, then perhaps you need to review your level of commitment. 

Below are some case studies that are intended to give examples of how individuals and organizations have been able to overcome obstacles and keep faithful.

 If you would like to have yourself, or your organization featured, contact us at casestudies at cwsm.org

Case Studies:

• US Plastic