In what ways can we avoid "pilfering" in modern workplace settings? The Call to Integrity: Titus 2:10 “not stealing, but showing all good faith, so that they will adorn the teaching of God our Savior in every way.” – Titus 2:10 Paul urges believers—especially employees under authority—to make the gospel attractive by refusing even the smallest act of theft. Pilfering covers more than cash; it is any dishonest use of what belongs to another. What Pilfering Looks Like Today • Taking office supplies, products, or tools for personal use • Padding expense reports or time sheets • Streaming personal entertainment on company time or equipment • “Borrowing” petty cash, gift cards, samples, or promotional items • Using corporate subscriptions or software licenses at home without permission • Inflating mileage logs or client billing hours • Claiming credit for someone else’s work or ideas Practical Ways to Resist • Remember everything belongs first to God (Psalm 24:1). We handle resources as stewards, not owners. • Keep short accounts. If a mistake benefits you financially, report it immediately (Luke 16:10). • Track your hours honestly, even when working remotely. Transparency builds trust. • Ask before using company property for personal needs; many firms will gladly loan resources when requested. • Limit personal phone calls, browsing, and social media during paid hours (Ephesians 5:15-16). • Plan ahead so you are not tempted to “borrow” supplies in a rush. • Set accountability: invite a colleague or spouse to review expense reports or mileage with you. • Return or reimburse anything taken unintentionally. Prompt restitution restores credibility (Leviticus 6:4-5). Motivation Rooted in the Gospel • Gratitude: Christ “who though He was rich… became poor” (2 Corinthians 8:9) so we might share His riches. Stealing contradicts that sacrificial love. • Witness: Honest work “adorns” the doctrine of God, making the gospel attractive to coworkers who may never read a Bible. • Reward: “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord… it is the Lord Christ you are serving.” – Colossians 3:23-24 Scripture Connections • Exodus 20:15 – “You shall not steal.” • Proverbs 11:1 – “Dishonest scales are an abomination to the LORD, but an accurate weight is His delight.” • Ephesians 4:28 – “He who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must labor… so that he may have something to share.” • 1 Peter 2:12 – Live honorably “so that… they may see your good deeds and glorify God.” Witness in the Workplace Integrity stands out. Consistent honesty: • Earns trust with supervisors and clients • Opens doors for gospel conversations • Reflects the character of Christ, who “committed no sin, nor was deceit found in His mouth” (1 Peter 2:22). Living It Out • Do a personal inventory of gadgets, subscriptions, and supplies—return what isn’t yours. • Review company policies; seek clarity where you’re unsure. • Build habits of punctuality and diligence; they crowd out temptations to cut corners. • Cultivate generosity. When you freely give, the urge to take diminishes. • Rejoice that every act of faithful stewardship “adorns the teaching of God our Savior in every way.” |
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