This article is an excerpt from Calling: Awaken to the Purpose of Your Work, Pierce Brantley’s new book (David C Cook, May 2020).

“Son, you need a sense of urgency.” When I was a boy, my dad would say this to me whenever he wanted me to treat some task around the house with the same importance as he did. Some tasks are time sensitive. Some tasks are really important because they affect other people. Still others are meant to mature us into more skillful workers. The same is true for your calling.

Your Father God first provides you with a job, and then he waits to see how you treat that work before allowing you to partner with him on bigger things. This isn’t punishment or cause for concern; it’s just the natural order of supernatural work. Hammers before jackhammers. Plumb lines before power tools. Agreement with God before awakening in calling. So often we think of our current jobs as if they have nothing to do with our calling, so we don’t approach them with the reverence they deserve. We’ll never discover our holy work with this attitude.

Jobs are provided supernaturally by God’s hand. When we revere God in that work, honor it as holy, and treat it with intention, it demonstrates to him that we’re ready for what we are really meant to do. That ought to bring an importance—an urgency—to whatever job you have.

This is spiritual urgency. It is agreeing with God that the task right in front of you requires an earnest and persistent attitude. This attitude in and of itself will give new meaning to your work—though it’s really just the start of all that’s in store for you. After all, all kinds of things can awake in others a deep desire for God.

God is looking for you to understand that every moment of your workday—even the mundane parts—is ripe for action. This is the same attitude that great men of the faith had by the time they were in the middle of their own called careers.

A HOPEFUL EXPECTATION

Jesus is coming again. We don’t know the day or the hour, of course, but the Bible is clear that the awareness of his imminent return ought to be in our minds, giving urgency to everything we do.

For the Christian man, the reality of Christ’s coming is the undercurrent beneath every calling and job. We all desire God’s will to be done on earth just as it is in heaven (see Matt. 6:10). Since we don’t know when Jesus might return or even what might happen and in what order, the desire to spread his message ought to become the driving force for what a Christian man does during any day, at work or at home or wherever he is. (We still have to do our actual jobs too!)

The opportunity we have as Christian men is to look out over the world and see it as Jesus does: as a field ready for harvest (see John 4:35). God sees humanity—including that portion you interact with at your job—as being full of potential. He has strategically set you in this time and place, not to mention this place of employment, for just such a time as this.

One thing the sobering reality of Jesus’ return may do is clarify for us what is important. It ought to give us a clear sense of what is useless, hamster-wheel work and what is work that will endure. How much time do we have to tell our family, friends, and coworkers about Christ before it’s too late?

This awareness of our finite opportunity to share the good news ought to give our jobs—whatever they are—a new urgency. Talk about finding meaning in your work!

This urgency will lead us to manifest him throughout our workday.

When the Christian man goes to work, he is colaboring with Christ in the expectation of his return. You cannot overlook it. God is “not willing that any should perish” (2 Pet. 3:9 KJV). This truth makes any job an urgent, critical, meaningful, purposeful, mission-related job.

It gives you your calling.

An expectation that Jesus’ return could happen at any moment is a great lens for looking at all your labor and discerning what needs to be done more, what needs to be done less, and what needs to be undone. Paul said it like this:

No one can lay a foundation other than that which is laid, which is Jesus Christ. Now if anyone builds on the foundation with gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, straw—each one’s work will become manifest, for the Day will disclose it, because it will be revealed by fire, and the fire will test what sort of work each one has done. If the work that anyone has built on the foundation survives, he will receive a reward. If anyone’s work is burned up, he will suffer loss, though he himself will be saved, but only as through fire. (1 Cor. 3:11–15)

In other words, your work matters. No matter what job you have, Paul said you are a builder. If you’re a cook, you’re building with gold or wood. If you’re an accountant, you’re building with silver or straw. Let’s build with the best materials—what do you say? That means having your mind set on demonstrating Christ to those you encounter wherever you spend time.

We don’t know what day or hour the Lord will return. Neither do we know how many days we have on earth if Jesus tarries. In our jobs—and all the parts of our lives—we need to live in light of the possibility that we may not have a tomorrow to talk to our coworkers, bosses, or employees about eternal life.

This article is an excerpt from Calling: Awaken to the Purpose of Your Work, Brantley’s new book (David C Cook, May 2020).

The post The Heart of a Father: An Eternal Perspective by Pierce Brantley appeared first on Christianbook.com Blog.

Make sure you check back weekly for our #EverythingChristian Lists! We’ll navigate thousands of items each week to bring you all the products we’d hate for you to miss. Enjoy!

1.Be Still and Know That I Am God, Framed Art by Ruth Chou Simons

This stunning framed art by Ruth Chou Simons will make a beautiful focal point in any home. Ruth’s unique watercolor style and hand-painted lettering are just breathtaking and will surely elicit many “ooo’s” and “aah’s” from guests to your home. There are many more pieces of framed art to peruse by Ruth Chou Simons, here.

2. This Girl Runs on Coffee and Jesus Tank Top

Coffee and Jesus – what else do you need to get through any day? This fun statement tee will look great with jeans or maybe even a nice addition to your workout-wear. However you wear it, it’s the perfect summer staple!

3. Faith, Hope, Love Bracelet

Oh we do love this bracelet! A brilliant reminder of the three things that matter most – Faith, hope, and of course, love. Not only does it send a wonderful message, but it is made so, so beautifully. A must-have!

4. Let Your Light Shine Water Bottle

We all know how important it is to keep hydrated in summer – so why not do it in style, and with faith! This water bottle features the message ‘Let Your Light Shine’ and even has a handy carry strap. Grab it for your next run!

5. Every Mile Mattered by Nichole Nordeman

This summer, Nordeman returns with her fifth studio album, Every Mile Mattered, an engaging collection of reflective and thought provoking CCM originals. This eleven song set poetically describes the Christian walk in the midst of life’s ups and downs, offering comfort and encouragement – it’s not-to-be-missed.

6. Spiral Bound Scripture Journal

Believe us when we say, this Scripture journal doesn’t only look great on the outside. Inside it is bursting with loveliness. There are Scripture coloring pages, stickers plus some blank art pages for you to fill with your own creations.

7. Blessed Daisy Mug

For those mornings where you are feeling extra blessed! This super cute daisy and polka dot design mug is sure to fill your mornings with sunshine… and of course coffee!

8. Relax Rustic Wall Art

For those who live by the ocean and those who wish they did! This lovely rustic design is guaranteed add the finishing touch to any room in your beach house, condo, or vacation home.

9. Praise, A Creative Journaling Bible

Complete with 300 elegant illustrations or thought-provoking Bible verses, the Praise Creative Journaling Bible is – to put it simply – beautiful! With all artwork drawn by hugely talented artist, Laura Elizabeth Marshall, you’re sure to fall in love with this Bible. It also features oversized margins for your own notes and prayers!

10. Beneath Copper Falls by Colleen Coble

Colleen Coble is at it again with yet another incredible suspense novel. In Beneath Copper Falls, a 911 dispatcher seeking a peaceful life in the tranquil town of Rock Harbor gets a little more than she hoped for. We promise you, it’s a real page-turner!

11. Grace Upon Grace Tote

We think this tote is perfect for taking just about anywhere! From the shops to the beach, this carry-all will make the perfect summer accessory with it’s floral design and message of faith.

12. Home Sweet Home Chopping Board

Summer is all about entertaining friends and family. This mango wood cutting board will be great for serving up delicious cheese and biscuits to your guests… or simply using as a cutting board!

13. Our Nest is Blessed Pillow

Because you can never have too many decorative pillows in our opinion! The simple design with the lovely message – ‘Our Nest is Blessed’ – it’s sure to suit just about any style of room.

Want to see what else is new in Gift & Home for July? Click here!

The post The #EverythingChristian List – Summer’s Best appeared first on Christianbook.com Blog.

There are so many incredible new Christian reads out there at the moment. So many in fact, that it’s often hard to decide which book to read next! Who do we turn to when looking for a new book to open? Why, our Book Editor of course! We wanted to know all about the best new releases written by women, for women. Those inspirational reads that aim to encourage, empower and restore other women. After looking through this list, she sure delivered!

So, take some time out on these lazy summer days and enjoy a good read!

Sacred Privilege – by Kay Warren

As a pastor’s wife and pastor’s daughter, Kay Warren has learned from years of experience about the unique role women play in ministry. In Sacred Privilege, she gives an inside look at the significance and impact of pastors’ wives. Warren delves into the ups and downs of ministry life, and offers affirmation to those who feel the pressure of those who feel the pressure of a public position. Her warm and wise advice will give you the confidence needed to lead and live well. Whether you begin this book from a place of joy or excitement – or are just feeling tired – you’ll see how your work and effort are worth the risk. We couldn’t recommend this book more for the woman in ministry!

Overwhelmed – by Kathi Lipp & Cheri Gregory

Life has a way of sneaking up on you. It feels manageable, but then one more thing gets added to the schedule and suddenly you can barely keep your head above water. This is when you find yourself overcommitted and just plain stressed. Sound a bit like your life from time to time? Well, Overwhelmed by Kathi Lipp and Cheri Gregory is the book for you. It offers real-life solutions and encouragement to help you identify underlying hurts, embrace hope, and create a plan that works for you. Discover how you can simplify your life with God’s grace and a healthy dose of self-care.

Don’t Settle for Safe – by Sarah Jakes Roberts

Have the twists and turns in life’s journey led you to an unexpected outcome? Sarah Jakes Roberts understands because she’s been there. Sharing hard-earned insights gleaned from her own missteps, she encourages you in Don’t Settle for Safe, to transform your view of your past, conquer destructive patterns, and realize your true calling. With deeply personal stories, Sarah will help you find your way to the right perspective and walk toward the best God has for you. So stop surviving and start thriving today.

Unshaken – by Sally Burke & Cyndie Claypool de Neve

Unshaken women know Who they belong to, Who they pray to, and Who helps them persevere when the storms of life hit. Join Sally Burke, president of Moms in Prayer International and author Cyndie Claypool de Neve on a quest to stand firm and pray boldly in your daily struggles and trials. You’ll discover the power of biblical prayer, read stories of women who experienced answered prayer in desperate circumstances, and learn how to pray for yourself and your loved ones in accordance with God’s will.

Control Girl – by Shannon Popkin

Fights with the family. Dissatisfaction when things don’t match your vision of perfect. Many women struggle with the desire to control their circumstances and relationships. It’s often revealed through unmet expectations, tension with your husband or children, and fear of the future. In Control Girl, Shannon Popkin shares from her own experience and the lives of women in the Bible to help readers lay down their burdens and find peace. You can rest in the knowledge that God is in control by surrendering your burdens to Him.

The Sacrament of Happy – by Lisa Harper

Finding happiness in a world full of hardship challenges even those with the strongest faith. Author Lisa Harper has faced her share of difficulties, but still believes that happiness is a gift we can and should enjoy without shame. Writing from the perspective of a seminarian and an adoptive mom, she explores the lost sacrament of laughter, the theological underpinnings of happiness, and much more. Readers of The Sacrament of Happy will be guided closer to the joyful heart of God, with their minds uplifted and funny-bones activated along the way.

Still need a little more inspiration in new Women’s Reads? Click here for more!

The post 6 New Books by Women, for Women appeared first on Christianbook.com Blog.