Over my career I have seen people make lots and lots of mistakes. Sometimes they were small mistakes made out of innocence or ignorance. Sometimes they were bigger mistakes made out of carelessness or negligence. Other times they were colossal mistakes made out of spite or maliciousness. Each type of mistake garners its own type of response and reaction. Yes, it is true, for each and every action, their is a reaction. The question is, what is to be our reactions as followers of Jesus? We all know that in the workplace us can’t be wallflowers or let others run over us just because we try and live our faith in our work. If we did, then we would more than likely be ineffectual in our jobs and not likely to succeed. However, we can stand up for ourselves and be strong in our approach but still do so in away that sets an example that we desire. When mistakes are made or actions taken where we are in the position of deciding what the response should be, Paul gives us directions in Colossians 3:12 on how we are to clothe ourselves for these work and life situations. He says, “Since God chose you to be the holy people whom He loves, you must clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy…” We many times equate the cry for mercy being what you hear from movies, TV and novels when someone was being tortured. But we should remember and recognize that each day we have the opportunity to tender our own hearts and show mercy on those who are in need. They may not be crying out in physical pain or begging for mercy but in their apologies for their mistakes or oversights they are asking for mercy in our reactions and responses. There are many instances where we have to take the hardest of lines and there is no choice, but even in those times we should examine ourselves to ensure that we have been tenderhearted in our approach and put ourselves in their shoes and apply the Golden Rule. The clothes we wear to work have to be durable and long-lasting. God does give us those.

Reference: Colossians 3:12 (New Living Testament)