Scripture of the Week:
“If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.”
— Romans 12:18 (NIV)
Devotional:
Every workplace has them.
The gossip.
The control freak.
The passive-aggressive colleague.
The boss who micromanages or constantly criticizes.
Loving difficult people is one of the greatest challenges we face as Christians in the workplace. It’s also one of the clearest opportunities we have to reflect the grace of Jesus to a watching world.Let’s face it—some people test our patience, drain our energy, and push all the wrong buttons. But Jesus never called us to love only the easy people. In fact, He made it clear:
“Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.” (Matthew 5:44)
That coworker who frustrates you?
That client who always complains?
That teammate who takes credit for your work?
They’re not just irritants—they’re invitations.
Invitations to display Christ’s love in the most powerful way: by offering grace where it’s not deserved.
And when it feels impossible, remember that loving difficult people isn’t something we do in our own strength—it’s something God empowers us to do through His Spirit.
Why Loving Difficult People Matters
✅ It Reflects the Heart of the Gospel
We were once difficult people too—lost in sin, resisting God’s grace. But Jesus pursued us, loved us, and forgave us. When we are loving difficult people, we mirror His love to a world that desperately needs to see it.
✅ It Sets Us Apart in the Workplace
The world responds to offense with retaliation. Christians respond with kindness. Choosing grace over grudges makes our witness unmistakable.
✅ It Frees Us from Bitterness
Choosing to extend grace instead of holding onto frustration not only benefits the relationship, but it also frees us from the weight of resentment and allows us to experience God’s peace. It’s a powerful tool for personal growth.
✅ It Often Softens Hearts
While not everyone will change, many will. Love has a way of disarming defenses and opening doors for honest conversation—and even faith.
A Story to Carry with You:
A woman in our church once shared about a coworker who went out of their way to make her life miserable. She prayed daily for wisdom, but mostly for strength not to lash out. One morning, instead of avoiding her coworker, she brought them coffee with a kind note. This small act of kindness, done in the spirit of grace, was the beginning of a transformation in their relationship.
They were stunned. That one act sparked a transformation in their relationship. Eventually, the coworker apologized, opened up about deep personal struggles, and even visited church. This is the power of love in action, breaking through where defensiveness never could.
Grace broke through where defensiveness never could.
This Week’s Challenge:
Each morning, ask God:
“Lord, help me to love as You love.
Please fill me with grace, especially for the difficult people.
Let my words and actions reflect Your kindness.”
Then step boldly into loving difficult people with patience, grace, and the unshakable love of Christ.
Reflection Verse for the Week:
“Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.”
— Ephesians 4:2 (NIV)
