Do not drag me away with the wicked,
     with those who are workers of evil . . . .
Because they do not regard the works of the LORD,
     or the work of his hands,
he will break them down and build them up no more.

Psalm 28:3, 5

Prayer

Gracious God, teach me to regard your works. Help me to pay attention to all that you have done and are doing. Help me to meditate on the work of your hands.

Your works, Lord, are beautiful: the shining sun, the gathering clouds, the verdant earth, the expanse of heaven. Thank you for creating me so that I can delight in the splendor of your works.

As I remember how you created human beings and delegated to us the task of filling this world, I yearn to be a faithful steward of all you have entrusted to me. In my work, may I imitate you by being wise in delegation, sharing good work with others, trusting and empowering them, helping them to flourish, and holding them accountable for their actions.

As I reflect upon your justice, O God, your commitment to treating all people with dignity and your special concern for the poor and the powerless, I ask you to help me work justly in all I do. May I respect all people, treating them as those who bear your image. Where I have authority, may I help the systems of my workplace to be filled with your justice. May I be especially concerned about those who have been denied justice in the past, those whose voices need to be heard and respected.

As I think of your grace to your people, I pray that, in my work, I may also be gracious. Teach me how to balance fair expectations and accountability with mercy. Help me to create a culture at work where people know they matter, where they are free to use their gifts with confidence, where failure is nothing to be feared. Give me the grace of patience with my co-workers, even as you are so patient with me. Amen.

Ponder Throughout the Day

If you want to flourish in your work, pay close attention to the works of God, both to delight in them and to imitate God in your own work.

For Further Reflection

Read all of Psalm 28, paying attention to what the Spirit of God is stirring up in your heart, especially in relationship to your work. Talk with God about what you are thinking and feeling.

You might also reflect on the following passage from the Psalms:

It is good to give thanks to the LORD,
     to sing praises to your name, O Most High;
to declare your steadfast love in the morning,
     and your faithfulness by night,
to the music of the lute and the harp,
     to the melody of the lyre.
For you, O LORD, have made me glad by your work;
     at the works of your hands I sing for joy. - Psalm 92:1-4

This prayer is part of a collection: 52 Workday Prayers: Learn from the Psalms How to Pray through Your Work. To purchase this devotional and small group guide, visit the De Pree Center store.