Devotions for Prayer Meetings
Devotions for Prayer Meetings

Staff meetings are more than just a time to discuss tasks. They are an opportunity to build unity and purpose within the team. By focusing on God’s word, we can strengthen relationships, foster trust, and encourage one another.

Each devotion serves to guide staff members in reflecting on biblical principles that apply directly to their work life. These devotions are meant to inspire action and align our work with God’s calling. When we center our time together on His Word, we can face challenges with a unified heart and clear purpose.

10 Devotions for Staff Meetings to Foster Unity & Purpose

#1. Devotion for Staff Members to Work Together in Unity Despite Differences

Scripture:

“Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called; one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.”
— Ephesians 4:3-6 (NIV)

Reflection:

Unity is essential in any team, especially in a work environment where individuals with diverse backgrounds and ideas come together. In Ephesians 4, Paul urges believers to make every effort to keep unity through the bond of peace. This unity is not based on uniformity, but rather on the shared faith we have in Christ. The goal is not for everyone to think the same way but to work together toward a common purpose. In the workplace, this means valuing the differences each team member brings while uniting under the banner of Christ’s love.

Achieving unity doesn’t happen by chance. It takes conscious effort, intentional communication, and a willingness to compromise. Unity also requires humility—understanding that we do not always have the right answers, but we trust that together, with God’s guidance, we can achieve more than we could alone. It’s easy to let differences become points of division, but when we focus on shared values and goals, we can find strength in diversity. As a staff, the bond of peace that Paul speaks about is a gift from the Holy Spirit, something that should be nurtured daily.

As we work together in unity, we reflect Christ’s character to the world. When staff members are committed to understanding one another and working together despite differences, it fosters an environment where productivity and harmony thrive. This does not mean that conflict will never arise, but it does mean that the conflict will be handled with grace and respect. Every team member’s voice matters, and each person’s contributions are valuable. Unity is a testimony to the world of what God can do when people put their differences aside and work together for a common good.

Prayer:

Dear God,
We come before You today, asking for Your help in maintaining unity within our team. We know that unity requires effort and humility, and we ask You to guide us in valuing each other’s perspectives. Help us to stay focused on our common goal and to remain patient with one another. Teach us to listen with understanding, to communicate respectfully, and to reconcile with grace when differences arise. May Your peace bind us together, making us stronger and more effective as we work towards fulfilling Your purpose.

Thank You, Lord, for the gift of unity and for Your constant presence among us. We trust that with Your guidance, we can overcome any challenges that threaten to divide us. May our work together be a reflection of Your love, and may we serve one another with kindness and humility. We place our efforts in Your hands, knowing You will guide us and bless our teamwork.
Amen.

Application:

  1. Take time each week to pray specifically for unity within your team. Ask God to reveal any areas where division might be growing.
  2. Commit to listening actively during meetings, giving each person a chance to share their perspective without interruption.
  3. When conflict arises, approach it with a mindset of reconciliation. Seek to understand the other person’s point of view before offering your own.
  4. Look for opportunities to celebrate each team member’s unique strengths and contributions to the team’s overall success.
  5. Encourage open communication and foster an environment where honesty and transparency are welcomed.

#2. Devotion to Encourage and Lift Up Fellow Staff Members During Stressful Times

Scripture:

“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.”
— 1 Thessalonians 5:11 (NIV)

Reflection:

In any workplace, stressful times are inevitable. Deadlines, workloads, and challenges can weigh heavily on staff members, making it difficult to maintain focus and energy. During these times, encouragement is essential. Paul’s words to the Thessalonians remind us of the power of uplifting one another. Encouragement is not just a kind gesture; it is a vital practice that strengthens the entire team. It helps individuals press on and stay motivated when circumstances seem overwhelming.

Encouraging one another goes beyond simple compliments. True encouragement comes from a place of empathy and understanding. It’s about recognizing when a coworker is struggling and offering a word of hope or practical support. Encouragement can take many forms: a quick text message to check in, a genuine compliment, or offering help when someone is overwhelmed. When staff members actively encourage each other, it creates an environment where everyone feels supported, not isolated. This kind of culture is essential for team success, especially during challenging moments.

In moments of stress, encouragement can be the spark that reignites a sense of purpose and drive. It reminds individuals that they are not alone in their struggles. God’s Word encourages us to look beyond our own difficulties and be a source of strength to others. When we take time to encourage those around us, we not only help them grow but also create a more resilient, unified team. Encouragement brings hope, and hope is a powerful tool for overcoming even the toughest challenges.

Prayer:

Dear Lord,
We thank You for the gift of encouragement and the strength it provides to our team during difficult times. We pray that You help us recognize when our coworkers need support and give us the words and actions to uplift them. Grant us the wisdom to encourage others in a way that truly impacts them. When stress weighs heavily on our hearts, remind us that we are not meant to bear these burdens alone. Help us to be a constant source of hope and strength for one another.

Thank You for always being present with us, especially in the tough moments. We trust that You will continue to provide us with the grace and encouragement we need to persevere. May we reflect Your love through our actions and words, offering each other the hope that comes only from You.
Amen.

Application:

  1. Make a habit of checking in on your coworkers regularly, especially when they appear stressed or overwhelmed.
  2. Offer specific, genuine words of encouragement to others during team meetings or in private.
  3. Set aside time during each meeting to acknowledge the hard work of others and celebrate small victories.
  4. Reach out to coworkers who may be struggling and offer help, whether it’s taking on tasks or simply offering a listening ear.
  5. Encourage a positive mindset by focusing on solutions and progress instead of solely on the challenges.

#3. Devotion to Serve with Humility by Putting Others Before Ourselves

Scripture:

“Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.”
— Philippians 2:3-4 (NIV)

Reflection:

Humility is one of the most powerful traits a team member can bring to the workplace. It’s not about self-deprecation, but rather about serving others with a genuine heart. Philippians 2 challenges us to value others above ourselves, not out of obligation, but with sincerity. In a workplace environment, this means prioritizing the needs and well-being of others over our own personal gains or ambitions. When each person acts with humility, the entire team benefits from a culture of selflessness.

Humility is also about recognizing that our own strengths and talents are gifts from God, meant to be shared for the good of others. By putting the needs of coworkers first, we create a supportive environment where everyone feels valued and appreciated. This mindset eliminates competition and fosters collaboration. When we serve each other with humility, we invite God’s presence into our work relationships, allowing His love and grace to guide our interactions.

Serving with humility is not always easy, especially when we feel overwhelmed or underappreciated. But it is through these moments that we can see God’s hand at work. When we choose to act selflessly, we are living out Christ’s example, who put the needs of others above His own. Humility transforms the workplace, making it a place where people are not only productive but also cared for. It strengthens relationships and fosters trust, creating a team that is united in purpose and service.

Prayer:

Heavenly Father,
We come to You today asking for the strength to serve with humility in all our interactions. Teach us to put others before ourselves and to see the value in every team member, no matter their position. Help us to lay down our ambitions and self-interest for the good of the team. When we feel pride or frustration rising, remind us of the example You set for us. May our actions reflect Your love, and may we always seek to build each other up through selfless service.

Thank You, Lord, for the opportunity to serve one another as You have served us. We know that humility is not always easy, but we trust that Your grace will empower us to put others first. May our team work together in harmony, putting each other’s needs above our own, and may our service bring glory to Your name.
Amen.

Application:

  1. Look for ways to serve your coworkers that go beyond your usual responsibilities, even if it means stepping out of your comfort zone.
  2. Practice active listening and give your full attention to others when they speak, showing that their thoughts and feelings matter.
  3. Find opportunities to praise others for their contributions, making sure their hard work is recognized.
  4. When a teammate is struggling, offer to help without expecting anything in return.
  5. Regularly check your own motivations and ask God to help you serve with a pure and humble heart.

#4. Devotion to Speak Words that Build Trust and Strengthen Staff Relationships

Scripture:

“Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.”
— Colossians 4:6 (NIV)

Reflection:

Words have incredible power. They can build people up or tear them down. In a workplace, the way we communicate with our colleagues shapes the trust and relationships we build. Paul’s letter to the Colossians teaches us that our speech should always be full of grace, meaning it should be kind, encouraging, and thoughtful. By being mindful of how we speak to others, we create an atmosphere where trust can flourish. People need to feel valued and respected, and the words we choose play a crucial role in conveying this.

Our speech should also be “seasoned with salt,” which implies that our words should not only be kind but also wise and appropriate for the moment. It means knowing when to speak and when to listen. In a team setting, words should reflect a spirit of cooperation, seeking to bring about understanding and unity. When we communicate in ways that are gracious and thoughtful, we not only strengthen relationships but also create a positive and productive work environment. Trust is built when we consistently speak in a way that demonstrates respect and care for others.

Building trust through our words is an ongoing commitment. It takes discipline to ensure that our conversations reflect the love and patience Christ calls us to. As we speak words that build up and avoid gossip or negative speech, we create a foundation of trust that allows the team to work more effectively together. When trust is present, team members feel more comfortable sharing ideas, asking for help, and working collaboratively. Our words can either strengthen or hinder the connections we have with others, so we must choose them wisely.

Prayer:

Dear God,
We come before You today asking for Your help in guarding our words. Teach us to speak in ways that build up, not tear down. Help us to be mindful of the impact our speech has on others. Give us the wisdom to choose words that encourage, bring clarity, and foster trust among our team. When misunderstandings or frustrations arise, guide us in speaking with grace and patience. May our words always reflect the love You have shown us and the respect we have for one another.

Thank You, Lord, for the power of communication and for the opportunity to build strong relationships with our coworkers. Help us to speak words that promote unity and trust, knowing that our words can be a reflection of Your love. May our conversations be pleasing to You and uplifting to those around us.
Amen.

Application:

  1. Before speaking, pause and consider how your words might impact the person you are speaking to.
  2. Commit to using words that are encouraging, even during difficult or stressful conversations.
  3. Avoid gossip or negative talk about coworkers and focus on constructive solutions instead.
  4. Practice active listening, showing respect for others’ opinions and making sure their voices are heard.
  5. Offer compliments and acknowledgment regularly to show appreciation for your colleagues.

#5. Devotion to Trust God with Deadlines, Challenges, and Workplace Pressure

Scripture:

“Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.”
— 1 Peter 5:7 (NIV)

Reflection:

Workplaces are often filled with tight deadlines, high expectations, and intense pressure. It’s easy to become overwhelmed by the demands of the job, and when this happens, stress can take a toll on both our mental and physical health. However, God calls us to cast all our anxiety on Him because He cares for us. This means that when the weight of workplace pressures feels too heavy to bear, we can turn to God and trust that He will help us navigate through it.

Trusting God with the challenges we face at work requires a mindset shift. It’s acknowledging that we don’t have to handle everything on our own. While we are responsible for doing our best, we must also recognize that our efforts are supported by God’s strength and guidance. Instead of allowing stress to consume us, we can lean on His peace and wisdom. Trusting God with our work challenges helps us stay focused on what’s important—being faithful in the tasks before us, without letting anxiety take over.

As we trust God with deadlines and challenges, we allow His peace to rule our hearts. This peace doesn’t come from avoiding challenges, but from knowing that He is in control and will guide us through. We can face workplace pressure with confidence, knowing that God is with us, helping us every step of the way. Trusting Him in the midst of stress not only relieves anxiety but also strengthens our faith and reminds us that we are never alone in our work.

Prayer:

Heavenly Father,
We come to You today with our anxieties and workplace pressures. You know the challenges we face, and we trust that You will guide us through them. Help us to cast our worries on You, knowing that You care deeply for us. When deadlines feel overwhelming or expectations are high, remind us that we don’t have to carry these burdens alone. Fill us with Your peace and strength, and help us focus on the tasks before us with faith and confidence.

Thank You for Your constant presence in our lives and work. We trust that You are with us in every challenge, providing the wisdom and endurance we need. May we rely on Your strength and rest in Your peace, knowing that You are faithful.
Amen.

Application:

  1. When feeling overwhelmed by deadlines, take a moment to pray and cast your anxieties onto God.
  2. Break down large tasks into smaller, manageable steps, asking God for guidance in prioritizing your work.
  3. Instead of allowing stress to build, take short breaks throughout the day to reset and refocus.
  4. Encourage a coworker who may be feeling pressured, offering words of support and reminding them to trust God.
  5. Regularly reflect on the progress you’ve made, thanking God for His help in completing each task.

#6. Devotion to Celebrate Each Team Member’s Contributions and Hard Work

Scripture:

“Honor one another above yourselves.”
— Romans 12:10 (NIV)

Reflection:

Recognizing and celebrating the efforts of our team members is an essential part of building a strong, motivated workforce. In Romans 12, Paul calls us to honor one another above ourselves, which includes acknowledging the hard work and contributions of others. Celebrating others’ achievements not only boosts morale but also fosters a sense of belonging and respect within the team. When we honor each other, we create an environment where everyone feels valued and encouraged to continue giving their best.

Celebrating others goes beyond simple recognition; it’s about fostering an attitude of gratitude and respect. Acknowledging someone’s hard work is a powerful way to show them that their efforts matter. Whether it’s a thank you for a job well done, a public shout-out during a meeting, or a small gesture of appreciation, these acts of recognition build trust and motivate the team to continue working together effectively. When each member of the team is celebrated, the entire group becomes stronger and more unified.

Celebrating contributions also helps to cultivate a culture of humility and generosity. When we honor others, we put the team above our own desires for recognition. By focusing on the accomplishments of others, we create an atmosphere where praise is shared, and no one person is left to carry the burden of success alone. This builds camaraderie and strengthens the relationships between team members, making the work environment more collaborative and productive.

Prayer:

Dear Lord,
We thank You for the opportunity to work together as a team, and we ask for Your help in recognizing the contributions of those around us. Teach us to honor one another above ourselves and to celebrate the hard work of our teammates. Help us to see the value in every effort, no matter how big or small, and to acknowledge the strengths that each person brings to the table. May our words and actions always reflect gratitude and appreciation for one another’s efforts.

Thank You, Lord, for the unique gifts each team member brings to the workplace. May we continue to build each other up, celebrating the ways You work through us. May our team grow in unity and purpose, and may we always honor one another with respect and kindness.
Amen.

Application:

  1. Make a point to celebrate a team member’s achievement each week, either privately or publicly.
  2. Express gratitude for coworkers’ contributions, both big and small, throughout your workday.
  3. Create opportunities for team recognition, such as shout-outs during meetings or a thank-you note after completing a project.
  4. Encourage team members to support one another and recognize the value in everyone’s work.
  5. Practice humility by focusing on the accomplishments of others and praising them freely.

#7. Devotion to Walk in Integrity When Facing Ethical Decisions at Work

Scripture:

“The Lord detests dishonest scales, but accurate weights find favor with him.”
— Proverbs 11:1 (NIV)

Reflection:

Integrity is a crucial element of any workplace, especially when it comes to making ethical decisions. Proverbs 11:1 reminds us that God values honesty and fairness. Dishonesty, even in small things, erodes trust and damages relationships. As employees and colleagues, we are called to uphold high ethical standards, even when it is difficult. Walking in integrity means choosing what is right, even when no one is watching, and even when it might come at a personal cost.

Making ethical decisions often requires courage, as it might involve standing up for what’s right, even if it’s unpopular. However, walking in integrity reflects God’s character and sets a strong example for others. When we operate with honesty and fairness, we contribute to a work culture where trust and respect flourish. Our decisions should reflect the values we hold dear, and we should always seek to honor God in every action we take, both in public and behind closed doors.

Integrity is also about consistency. It’s easy to make the right choice when things are going well, but true integrity is tested during challenging times. Whether faced with a tempting shortcut or an ethical dilemma, we must choose what is right and trust that God will honor our decisions. When we walk in integrity, we create a culture of trust that strengthens our relationships and our work. Integrity is not just a choice; it’s a reflection of our commitment to doing God’s will.

Prayer:

Heavenly Father,
We come before You today asking for the strength to walk in integrity at work. Help us to make decisions that reflect Your values, even when it is difficult or when no one is looking. Give us the courage to choose honesty and fairness in every situation. When faced with ethical dilemmas, guide us to make choices that honor You and contribute to a culture of trust. May we be faithful stewards of the responsibilities You have entrusted to us, always striving to do what is right.

Thank You for the gift of integrity and for the strength You provide to make the right decisions. Help us to stay true to our convictions and to reflect Your character in all our actions. May our workplace be a place where trust, honesty, and fairness reign, and may we always honor You in our work.
Amen.

Application:

  1. When faced with an ethical decision, pause to reflect on God’s values and how they apply to the situation.
  2. Commit to honesty in all business dealings, ensuring that no shortcuts are taken for personal gain.
  3. Set a strong example for others by maintaining integrity, even when the pressure is high.
  4. Encourage coworkers to uphold ethical standards and offer support when they face tough decisions.
  5. Regularly assess your actions and decisions to ensure they align with biblical principles of honesty and fairness.

#8. Devotion to Pray for Coworkers’ Success, Well-Being, and Spiritual Growth

Scripture:

“I always thank my God for you because of his grace given you in Christ Jesus.”
— 1 Corinthians 1:4 (NIV)

Reflection:

Praying for our coworkers is one of the most meaningful ways to show love and care for them. Paul’s words to the Corinthians remind us of the importance of thanking God for others and seeking His blessings on their lives. It is easy to focus on our own tasks and goals, but taking the time to pray for the success, well-being, and spiritual growth of others not only helps them but also strengthens the bonds within the team. When we pray for our colleagues, we are inviting God’s presence into their lives and work.

Praying for others is an act of humility. It requires us to set aside our own needs and desires and lift up those around us. This prayer doesn’t just focus on their success at work but encompasses their physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. By praying for coworkers, we are acknowledging that their struggles and triumphs matter, and that we desire to see them flourish in every area of their lives. These prayers create a culture of care, where the success of others is celebrated just as much as our own.

When we pray for coworkers’ spiritual growth, we also invite God to work in their hearts, helping them to grow closer to Him. This can lead to stronger relationships within the team, as people feel supported not only in their professional tasks but in their personal faith journey. Prayer deepens our connection with others, allowing us to see them as God sees them—valuable, loved, and worthy of His grace. By committing to pray for our coworkers, we actively participate in their well-being and spiritual development.

Prayer:

Dear God,
We thank You for the privilege of working alongside our coworkers. We pray for their success and well-being, both in their professional and personal lives. Please bless their work, giving them the wisdom, strength, and guidance they need to succeed. We ask that You protect them from stress and burnout, and help them find balance in all that they do. May their efforts be fruitful and rewarding, and may they experience Your peace in their work.

Lord, we also pray for their spiritual growth. Draw them closer to You and strengthen their faith, that they may walk in Your ways. Help them to grow in wisdom and grace, and let their work reflect Your love and purpose. We are grateful for each team member, and we trust that You are at work in their lives. Thank You for the gift of prayer and for the ability to lift up our coworkers in Your name.
Amen.

Application:

  1. Set aside time each day to pray for your coworkers’ success and well-being.
  2. Pray for specific needs or challenges that your coworkers may be facing, whether they are work-related or personal.
  3. Encourage a prayerful mindset by asking others how you can pray for them and offering to pray together.
  4. Celebrate the successes of others by thanking God for their achievements and growth.
  5. Commit to praying for the spiritual development of your coworkers, asking God to guide them in their faith journey.

#9. Devotion to Overcome Workplace Conflict with God’s Guidance and Patience

Scripture:

“A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.”
— Proverbs 15:1 (NIV)

Reflection:

Conflict is inevitable in any workplace, especially when different personalities and ideas come together. However, how we handle that conflict is what makes the difference. Proverbs 15:1 reminds us that a gentle answer can defuse anger, while harsh words escalate tension. Conflict resolution requires patience, humility, and a willingness to seek peace over being right. God’s guidance is essential in these moments, helping us to respond with grace and understanding instead of reacting in anger or frustration.

When conflict arises, it is important to remember that God calls us to pursue peace and reconciliation. The first step in overcoming conflict is to take a step back and seek God’s wisdom. Often, we respond impulsively, wanting to defend our position, but a gentle and thoughtful response can create an opening for dialogue and understanding. By letting God guide our reactions, we can transform moments of tension into opportunities for growth and deeper connections with others.

Patience is key in resolving workplace conflicts. Sometimes, conflicts don’t get resolved immediately, and we must trust God’s timing. During these times, we must remain committed to finding peaceful solutions while trusting that God will work in the hearts of those involved. By handling conflict with humility, patience, and prayer, we not only resolve issues but strengthen relationships, building a foundation of trust and respect.

Prayer:

Heavenly Father,
We come before You asking for Your guidance in times of workplace conflict. When tensions rise, help us to respond with patience, gentleness, and understanding. Teach us to listen to others with empathy and to seek peaceful solutions that honor You. Give us the wisdom to navigate difficult conversations and the strength to maintain calm when emotions run high. Help us to reflect Your love and grace in every interaction, even in times of disagreement.

Thank You, Lord, for Your presence in our lives and for the peace that You bring. May we always remember that You are our source of wisdom and patience. Help us to overcome conflict with Your guidance, knowing that You can bring healing and restoration to all relationships.
Amen.

Application:

  1. In moments of conflict, take a deep breath and ask God for wisdom before responding.
  2. Practice active listening, making sure you understand the other person’s point of view before offering a solution.
  3. Choose your words carefully, avoiding harsh language or sarcasm that could escalate the situation.
  4. Seek to reconcile with colleagues by offering a gentle and respectful response, even if you disagree.
  5. If a conflict isn’t immediately resolved, pray for God’s guidance and trust in His timing to bring peace.

#10. Devotion to Fulfill Our Work Responsibilities with Joy and Purpose

Scripture:

“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.”
— Colossians 3:23 (NIV)

Reflection:

Every task, no matter how small or mundane, is an opportunity to honor God through our work. Colossians 3:23 reminds us that we should approach our work with a heart full of dedication, as if we are working directly for the Lord. This mindset transforms even the most routine responsibilities into acts of worship. When we understand that our work is part of God’s plan for us, it gives us a sense of purpose and fulfillment. We are not simply working for a paycheck; we are serving God in every task we undertake.

Joy in our work comes when we recognize that God can use any job to grow us and to serve others. Whether we’re managing a project, answering emails, or cleaning a workspace, each task is significant in God’s eyes. Approaching work with a heart of gratitude and joy allows us to experience His peace and satisfaction in everything we do. When we do our work with excellence and integrity, we honor God and serve as a witness to others of His goodness and grace.

Work is a reflection of our faith. When we work diligently and joyfully, we set an example for others of what it looks like to serve God in all things. It’s not about the type of work we do, but how we do it. By working with passion and purpose, we bring glory to God and contribute to a positive, productive work environment. Let our work be a testimony of the joy we find in serving God with all our heart.

Prayer:

Dear Lord,
We thank You for the work You have given us and for the purpose it provides. Help us to approach every task with joy, knowing that we are serving You in all things. Give us the strength to fulfill our responsibilities with excellence, even in the small, routine tasks. May our work reflect Your love and grace, and may we always work with a heart full of gratitude and dedication. Help us to see the value in everything we do, knowing that it is all part of Your plan for us.

Thank You for the privilege of working for You, Lord. May our work be a testimony of Your goodness and may we find joy in serving You through our responsibilities. Let us always seek to honor You in everything we do, working with purpose and joy.
Amen.

Application:

  1. View every task as an opportunity to serve God and do it with your best effort.
  2. Maintain a positive attitude towards work, even when faced with challenging or mundane tasks.
  3. Regularly reflect on the purpose behind your work, reminding yourself that you are serving God.
  4. Take time to thank God for the opportunities you have to contribute through your work.
  5. Strive for excellence in every task, knowing that your work is a reflection of your faith in God.

Closing Thoughts

As we navigate the challenges and opportunities of our work lives, it is essential to remember that our work is more than just a series of tasks. It is a calling—an opportunity to reflect God’s character and fulfill His purpose in every area of our lives. By focusing on unity, encouragement, humility, integrity, and prayer, we can foster a workplace culture that is not only productive but also built on strong relationships and shared values.

The devotions shared here are reminders that we are never alone in our work. God is with us, guiding us through every decision, challenge, and moment of success. As we continue to serve one another with grace, build trust through our words, and remain steadfast in our faith, we contribute to a workplace where everyone can thrive, grow, and feel supported. May we always approach our work with joy, knowing that in doing so, we are serving the Lord and fulfilling His calling for our lives.