Introduction and Context
In the modern world, it is possible to have high career aspirations while operating from a Biblical perspective. However, some persons see it as a challenge to seek to excel in their careers while staying true to Biblical principles. In defining the concept of career advancement, we are referring to the progression of a person’s professional life in a positive and desirable direction. For different persons this means promotion, increased responsibilities, becoming their own boss by being self-employed or increased educational attainment. Likewise, the reasons for seeking advancement vary. Whatever your reason, I posit that maintaining faith, Biblical approach, and a thriving career is necessary in our professional spheres.
This is part 1 of 2 articles on this series on insights from Daniel’s career.
One of the places I have found wisdom for my career is in the book of Daniel, which describes the circumstances around which Daniel was promoted multiple times. I have always been impressed and fascinated by Daniel's rise to leadership and knowing that God placed him there, in a position of prominence. I also discovered that Daniel and I shared some things in common including being an immigrant and a trusted advisor to senior leaders. Whether you are a professional, an entrepreneur or both, you can learn some career strategies and business principles, based on Daniel’s career trajectory. So in part 1 and 2 of this series, I discuss key strategies that may empower you.
Lessons from Daniel
Undoubtedly, Daniel is a role model for us in contemporary society. We can learn some important lessons to distinguish ourselves, become key influencers of change and make a lasting impact. Let's now explore career and business strategies from Daniel's life and career.
Identify Your Talents and Gifts
Daniel is known for his leadership skills, problem solving skills and aptitude to learn quickly (Daniel 1:4-5; 18) He consistently performed his duties with exceptional skill and wisdom (Daniel 6:3, AMP). Do you know your strengths and gifts? Spiritual gifts will also serve you well in the world of work. Walking in your spiritual gifts or using your God-given strengths will allow you to solve problems, which means people will want to do business with you or have you in their company, so you build a great brand because of this great reputation. You know you have accomplished this goal when people call your name in rooms you are not present in.
There's an expression that says your reputation precedes you. We can also think about it like referrals. Daniel 5:12 says “This man Daniel, whom the king named Belteshazzar, has exceptional ability and is filled with divine knowledge and understanding. He can interpret dreams, explain riddles, and solve difficult problems. Call for Daniel, and he will tell you what the writing means” NLT . I am aware that my gifts of teaching and encouragement are also operating when I work in various roles whether I am leading a team, advising, mentoring, training or speaking with customers on the phone. God gives us gifts to solve problems in the marketplace. The more problems we solve, the more opportunities present themselves.
Demonstrate Excellence
A commitment to excellence is important. Excellence is not the same as perfectionism. Instead it is a desire to raise above mediocrity. Daniel excelled in all aspects and distinguished himself (Daniel 1:19-20). His exceptional wisdom and understanding were recognized by King Nebuchadnezzar, who found Daniel "ten times better than all the magicians and enchanters" in his kingdom (Daniel 1:20, AMP). According to Daniel 6: 3-5, he was excelling even among his leader peers so he was promoted to an even more senior position that let him govern the entire kingdom. His naysayers could not find any problems with the quality of his work even when they tried to scrutinize because he was doing what he was supposed to do and he did it well. Likewise, I embrace a belief in demonstrating excellence. It was helpful that my high school motto "Age Quod Agis" also aligned with my beliefs. It means "whatever you are doing, do it to the best of your ability". Some persons may feel uncomfortable because they are intent on going through the motions. However, you should not dim your light because you were made to stand out not blend in.
Conclusion
In conclusion, we can achieve our goals of career advancement and business growth by using Biblical perspectives, some of which we gain by looking at insights from the life and career of Daniel. As a coach, I invite you to consider these questions: Have you identified your strengths? Are you walking in your God-given talents or trying to imitate someone else? What attitude or obstacle is preventing you from consistently demonstrating excellence? How can you make a difference for the persons you service by using your natural abilities and eliminating mediocrity? Undoubtedly, Daniel is a role model for us to excel in contemporary society.
Thank you for reading this article . Please look out for part 2 of this series.
About the author
Michelle Gibson-Morgan is an award-winning Jamaican-Canadian leader, certified coach, global speaker, bestselling author and consultant who specializes in career development, change management and leadership. Being a Christian for over two decades, she often provides insights from the intersection of faith and career/business.
This piece was written and contributed by our PAJE Writer! Remember to show your support by liking, sharing and commenting!
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I really appreciate this article. It inspires me to reflect on whether or not I have been complaining about things or instead using my gifts and skills to solve problems and to do it with excellence. It's a good reminder that excellence creates opportunities for promotion. Thank you so much.