Sometimes I wonder about the random mix of people in my office. Most of them have had a completely different life than mine. Some drive me crazy. Some are easy to work with, some are terrible to work with! Not all are Christians, a few are atheists. The ones who are Christians may have beliefs different than my own. But I do believe that we were all put together for a reason. No matter what, I have been commanded to love each and every one of them. Just like in your daily life - whether it be in an office setting, a classroom, a retail store, etc. - you are commanded to love and live in harmony with those around you. Some people can make that incredibly difficult to do.

Since we are commanded to love one another (And this doesn't only mean other Christians or people that already love you back, it includes everyone around you) here are some ideas to make that a little easier:

1. Pray for your coworkers
   • Especially the ones that are difficult to deal with. I was going through a very hard time with my boss recently. We weren't communicating very well and it was making work really tough for me. I started praying for him and our working relationship, and things have improved drastically.
2. Find ways to show them that you love them
   • Always be aware of the feelings of those around you. Stress, hurt, happiness, sadness, emotions tend to come out when you work closely with people. Detecting those feelings will show your coworkers that you love them.
3. Be a good example
   • As a Christian, people are looking to you to set an example. Do the right thing no matter what, and you will be an amazing influence for Christ in your workplace.
4. Act in love
   • No matter what your responsibilities may be, do it with love. Let love be the driving force for all your interaction with your coworkers. If this is done at all levels - from janitor to CEO - your office will be an awesome place to come to everyday.
5. Aim for harmony 
   • People don't always get along. Be the peacemaker in your office and you will be greatly rewarded. Try to stop the gossip between coworkers - nothing good every comes from it.
6. Build up those around you
   • Find the best in people and build on those things. They will be honored that you noticed what they do well and be encouraged to do even more.
7. Help your coworkers do what is right
   • Even though you may not know it, you are a strong influence on people. If you make suggestions to help people do the right thing, they will more than likely do it.

Read Romans 14 - More great examples of living in harmony with those around you.

I pray that your coworkers see Christ's love shining through you today.
- Crystal