Finding Purpose in the Corporate World
For years, I have wrestled with a lingering question: How does my career in property tax software implementation contribute to God’s kingdom? I have written about this a few times as it is a constant struggle for me to try to reconcile. At first glance, my work seems far removed from traditional ministry. Unlike pastors, missionaries, or those working in faith-based organizations, my role revolves around data, technology, and helping governments manage property taxation. Where does God fit into that?
Whenever I think about this, Proverbs 16:9 comes to mind: “The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps.” I may not have set out to work in tax software, but God has placed me here for a reason. And through much prayer and reflection, I’ve come to realize that my calling isn’t necessarily about what I do but how I do it.
Called to Lead, Called to Serve
Over time, I’ve seen that my role isn’t just about implementing software—it’s about leading people. Leadership, when approached through the lens of faith, is an opportunity to serve, uplift, and guide others with integrity. Jesus himself modeled servant leadership, reminding us in Mark 10:45, “For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”
This realization transformed how I view my work. I am not just a manager or director; I am a shepherd to my team. My leadership is my ministry. Every decision I make, every challenge I navigate, and every person I mentor is an opportunity to reflect Christ’s love and character. Whether it’s advocating for fairness in a profit-driven business, supporting a struggling team member, or demonstrating patience in a tense situation, I am called to lead in a way that honors God.
Faith in the Workplace: A Silent Mission Field
One of the hardest aspects of being a Christian in the corporate world is that faith has become almost taboo. Open discussions about God are rare, and expressing Christian values can sometimes feel like swimming against the tide of company culture. Yet, I am reminded of Matthew 5:16: “Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”
I may not be able to preach openly in my office, but I can still be a witness. My integrity, my work ethic, my compassion, and my commitment to truth all speak louder than words. Colossians 3:23 encourages us, “Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men.” This verse reminds me that my ultimate employer is not the company I work for—it’s God. If I work with excellence and honesty, not for personal gain but to honor Him, then my career becomes an act of worship.
Navigating the Bottom-Line Mentality with Christian Values
One of the greatest challenges I face is balancing my Christian values with a business culture that often prioritizes profit above all else. The temptation to cut ethical corners or to value efficiency over people is real. But Scripture reminds me to hold fast to righteousness. Proverbs 11:1 states, “A false balance is an abomination to the Lord, but a just weight is his delight.”
I have made it my mission to be a leader who values people over profit, ethics over expedience, and faith over fear. This doesn’t always mean making the easiest choices, but it does mean making the right ones. And when I face resistance or discouragement, I remind myself that my work has a higher purpose—to reflect Christ in the way I lead and serve.
Purpose Beyond Profit
While I may never see my job listed as “kingdom work” in a traditional sense, I now recognize that God has placed me here for a reason. My career isn’t just about software implementation—it’s about influencing people for the better. It’s about demonstrating Christ’s love through leadership. It’s about being a light in an industry where faith is often pushed to the margins.
If you, too, have ever questioned how your work contributes to God’s kingdom, remember that no job is too secular for His purpose. Whatever your role, He can use you. And perhaps, like me, you’ll come to see that leadership itself is a ministry—one that allows us to serve others, stand firm in our values, and let our light shine in even the most unexpected places.