What kind of work environment brings out the best in you? Do you thrive on routine? Are you motivated by people’s needs? Do you enjoy tackling challenges that might discourage others? How about your relationships? Do you enjoy being part of a team, or do you work better alone? If you only come to life when you’re around people, you’ll probably be miserable sitting in front of a computer all day and having little interaction with others. On the other hand, maybe that’s an environment you can thrive in, where you can focus and get things done without distractions. What are your strengths? God said of Bezalel the builder, ‘I have filled him with…wisdom…He is a master craftsman, expert in working with gold, silver, and bronze…skilled in engraving…mounting gemstones…carving wood’ (Exodus 31:3-5 NLT). What makes your eyes sparkle and your pulse race? Do you enjoy working with computers, cars, or animals? Maybe you’re a great people manager, or you like fixing things, or you’re good with finances. The Bible says, ‘We are God’s masterpiece…created…anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.’ God has a purpose for your life, and you’ll experience your highest levels of joy and fulfilment when you discover and begin to fulfil that purpose. You’re not just another brick in the wall or another nail in the carpenter’s toolbox! God ‘personally formed and made you’ (see Isaiah 43:7 MSG). You’re the only ‘you’ He created, and if you fail to be who you are, His kingdom won’t benefit from your unique contribution. That’s why Paul wrote, ‘Don’t compare yourself…take responsibility for doing the…best you can with your…life’ (Galatians 6:4-5 MSG). That’s the secret of happiness.
