By Rachel Loe, July 15, 2024

The past few weeks we have covered what to do when we fail to live up to our testament in the workplace. This week, we will wrap up the series with how we should respond when others fail in the workplace, whether they are believers or not. Echoing back two weeks to the opening verse, Romans 3:23 (ESV) “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God”. People will fail us, both Christians and those who are not believers. Our bosses will do unethical things. Our coworkers will talk about us or cut corners to get ahead. Our hope is not in those around us but in God’s ultimate plan. 

We should not turn a blind eye to wrongdoing, but we cannot put our whole identity to work and thus be devastated when people prevent an outcome we desire. Addressing misconduct with a person who is in the workplace is nerve-wracking. I cannot give you a cookie cutter step-by-step, but some principles to guide are: 

1. Remember that God has placed people in positions of authority for a reason (Romans 13:1). When responding to a situation with a boss, you must remember, whether we can see the reason or not, God will ultimately be glorified and is sovereign over all situations. If the situation needs to be addressed, seek wise counsel from someone you respect who has had experience in a workplace similar to yours. 
2. When dealing with a peer – Remember that Christ calls us to live at peace with all and deal gently with those around us (Philippians 4:5; Colossians 3:12; Titus 3:2). Take the example given in Matthew 18:15-20 and go to the person in private so that no one can hear. If they do not respond, address it further with someone in authority. Again, I recommend seeking wise counsel, as every situation is different. 
3. Finally, when dealing with someone who is a subordinate, remember to be gentle in correction (2 Timothy 2:23-26). We are still ambassadors for Christ, and He deals with us gently, though we do not deserve it. If action is required in response to the misconduct, then take action, but do not react in anger or pride. For the third time, seek wise counsel if you are newly in a leadership position and need to correct someone. 

God has given us resources in scripture and wisdom in our fellow believers to handle challenges in the workplace. The biggest thing is to remember that as Christians, our value and worth are not tied to our work but to the One who gave us the work to do.