John pushed open the front door and set his briefcase on the ground, bending down to greet Zoey, his faithful German Shepherd. “Hey, girl.”

Zoey wagged her tail and wriggled in delight as John stroked her head. Some of the tension melted from between John’s shoulders. He stepped into the kitchen, where Amy was standing at the stove stirring a pot of chili. He moved behind her and wrapped his arms around her.

“You’re home late.”

John sighed. “I know. It was another tough day.”

“Set the table and we’ll talk about it over dinner.”

John pulled the glasses, bowls, and silverware out of the cabinets and carried them to the table. After pouring two tall glasses of water. Amy carried the pot of chili to the table. She spooned the thick, hearty chili into the bowls, and she and John took their usual seats across from one another. Amy squeezed John’s hand. “Dear God, thank You for this food, and thank You for giving John this job. Please help him see how you are using him there.”

Amy’s words lifted John’s spirits. “Thanks. That’s exactly what I need. This is the hardest job I’ve ever had.”

Amy blew on her chili. “What makes it so hard?”

“I’ve never managed people directly before. And while I have a good group, they’re a challenge. Dana and Sylvia don’t get along at all. Dana wants to move fast, and Sylvia is more methodical, so they’re always clashing. Then I have Greg, who is supposedly on medical restrictions, so all he can do is sit at his desk, and I don’t think he’s being productive enough. On top of that, I think my boss is trying to groom Ella to take over for me.”

“What do you mean?”

“Ella is young and sharp and is being given more and more responsibility. She’s being trained ostensibly to be second in command of the group, but that makes the other team members jealous, since they’ve been there longer.” John took a spoonful of chili and let the savory warmth travel down his throat. “This is delicious. Thank you.”

“I’m glad I could do something nice for you on a day when you’re stressed.”

“Just being with you helps my stress level.” John reached across the table and squeezed her hand. “I want to do a good job. I feel God gave me the job for a reason, but I also feel like I’m letting my boss down. My job is to manage this group, but it’s a struggle. I’ve also been going crazy trying to understand all the computer systems. That part is getting better, but my boss is stressed, and she’s been coming down hard on me. I don’t want to let her down.”

“Of course, you don’t. You’re a hard worker, and she can see that.”

“Being a hard worker doesn’t matter if you can’t get things done because your team is arguing.”

Amy nodded. “I suppose that’s true. I’ll continue to pray for you that God will show you the path forward.”

“Thank you. I appreciate it.”

Tuesday morning, John dragged himself to the office, trying to drum up the motivation to endure the challenges the day would bring. All he wanted was to do what God was calling him to do. If God wanted him in this job, why was it so difficult? He greeted his coworkers with a smile and a friendly hello as he made his way to his desk. Soon, Brian approached.

“Hey John, do you have a minute?”

John turned from his computer screen to give his full attention to the younger man. He and Brian had had some meaningful conversations lately. “Sure, Brian. What can I do for you?”

“I just wanted to tell you that you’ve really inspired me lately.”

“What do you mean?”

“I’ve been watching you ever since you told me about your faith in God. I’ve seen what you’ve had to deal with around here. Jenn has been on your case a lot lately, and I see the tension within your group. But you never complain. You keep coming in every day with a smile for everyone and a good attitude. Even when your team members argue, you treat them with respect.”

John shifted in his seat. This praise was uncomfortable. “I’m just doing my job.”

“No, it’s more than that. Other people wouldn’t react the way you are reacting. I think it has something to do with your faith in God. I wanted to let you know I plan to return to church. If your faith makes you act the way you do, then I want to learn how to get that faith as well. I have to head to a meeting now, but I wanted to let you know.”

Brian headed down the hall, leaving John staring after him. He picked up the phone and dialed Amy.

“I think I finally figured out why God has me here. Let’s take Zoey for a long walk tonight and I’ll tell you all about it.”

1 Peter 3:15 But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect.

God, help us remember that as Christians, we are your mouthpiece, whether in word or in deed. Sometimes we go through trials to teach us lessons, but sometimes we go through them to teach others. Thank you for the godly men and women you put in our path. Please help us encourage one another so we can continue to be faithful witnesses for You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.