How Does a Christian Choose a Career? 3 Things You Need to Know
Since you've landed on this piece, chances are you have asked/have been asking yourself one or more of the following questions:
How do I choose a career in a way that honors God?
Is this really what God wants me to do?
Am I making the right decision?
As dedicated followers of Jesus, we've also been there! It's certainly not uncommon to feel paralyzed when it comes to making a career-related decision. This happens exactly because we care about being aligned with God’s will.
Today, we’re going to share with you three principles that can bring clarity and peace to your career planning process (especially if you're just starting out).
Looking For Christian Career Opportunities: What to Consider?
Of course, there are many things you should be aware of before making such an important decision like choosing your career.
However, there are 3 main things you need to focus on and constantly remind yourself of before moving forward with your choice:
1. Always begin with prayer and trust God in uncertainty
The first and most important step in choosing a career is to start with prayer. As Christians, we don’t make such decisions alone.
Proverbs 16:3 tells us to trust the Lord with all our hearts and submit to Him in all our ways:
“Commit to the LORD whatever you do, and He will establish your plans.”
As human beings with our attention span progressively decreasing (due to endless scrolling on social media and no-so-ideal internet browsing habits), we tend to lack patience and look for immediate answers and feedback.
That’s where trust comes in. Prayer isn’t about asking our questions and receiving immediate answers. It’s about aligning our hearts and efforts with God’s will.
When we consistently pray over our career decisions, we’re inviting God into our lives and into the process. This brings us peace, despite not having "instant" clarity.
Besides, unlike us, God sees the bigger picture. If He closes a door, that may be His way of redirecting us. That’s why prayer isn’t about asking but about listening and being open to the journey He’s leading us on.
If you're in the stage where you need to choose a degree, here are 5 things to pray before making your decision.
2. Look beyond passion when choosing your career
We often see/hear the phrase “Follow your passion!” in the context of choosing a career.
In fact, data shows us that, in the past few decades, the frequency of instances this phrase has been seen in books has considerably gone up.
While being passionate can be useful, it shouldn't really be a deciding factor in choosing a career.
We've already discussed that passions can change and may not translate into a sustainable career. Essentially, instead of focusing on your passion, think about these three things:
Your God-given gifts: What are you naturally good at? What skills has God given you that you can use to serve others?
The needs of the world: What problems can you help solve? A career isn’t just about personal fulfillment; it’s also about how we can contribute to the world.
Where you can grow most: Where can you accumulate resources —whether skills, credentials, connections, or savings—that allow you to have a greater kingdom impact later?
3. Let go of the fear of choosing the "wrong" career
Just this year, you may have spent dozens of hours reflecting on your career.
It’s easy to become paralyzed by the complexity of it, or to be afraid of making the wrong choice and having less impact.
If that’s you, remember that God is not going to abandon you:
“The Lord will fulfill his purpose for me;” (Psalm 138:8a ESV)
Remember that God often leads us step by step. We may not see the whole picture, but He has good plans for us which He wants to fulfil in our lives:
'“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.’” (Jeremiah 29:11 NIV)
And even if we choose the “wrong” career or one with less impact, Jesus promises us peace:
“I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world;” (John 16:33 ESV)
This does not mean we shouldn’t try to make the best career choices possible. We should.
What we should avoid is the self-doubt and fear that comes from believing that it everything depends on us.
Make your decision prayerfully and with a heart to honor God. This way, you'll be able to move forward in confidence, knowing that He is guiding your steps.
“And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ.” (Philippians 1:6 ESV)
For Christian career opportunities, visit our guide on the best job boards for Christians who want to make a difference.
How do you pray to find a career path?
This is a great question because sometimes we tend to overcomplicate prayer. In reality, it’s about having an open and honest conversation with God.
So, what should someone actually pray for when seeking direction?
Here are a few things you can pray for today:
Pray for wisdom - only through wisdom we can hope to live a meaningful life. And remember, true wisdom begins with having the fear of the Lord in our lives (i.e., a healthy, holy reverence and awe of God).
“If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.” (James 1:5 NIV)
“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.” (Proverbs 9:10 NIV)
Pray for clarity - having a clear vision brings us closer to the work God has intended for us. Reading and meditating on the Word of God can enlighten your path and give you clarity as you make this important decision.
“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” (Psalm 119:105)
Pray for opportunities - opportunities to learn and grow, enabling you to ultimately understand your God-given individual calling and how you can partner with Him in His mission of restoring the world.
How do I find my purpose in life as a Christian?
Your purpose isn’t just about your career. As Christians, our ultimate purpose is to love God and to love our neighbors as ourselves, and your career is an extension of this.
Step out in faith and try things. Every job, every experience, and every season of life teaches us something. Keep an open mind, just like a scout changes their mind as they view more of a landscape. Just start where you are now and trust that God is working for your good.
“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” (Romans 8:28 NIV)
What career should a Christian choose?
The short answer? A career that aligns with your values, uses your gifts, and allows you to serve God and your neighbor.
The longer, more complex answer? Instead of looking for a specific job title, consider these three guiding principles:
Does this career honor God? Does it align with your faith and values and help you become a more Christ-like person?
Does it impact the world - either directly or indirectly - by working effectively towards a pressing global problem?
Does this career allow you to use and grow your career capital for long-term impact?
God has given each of us talents and strengths to have an impact:
“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.” (1 Peter 4:10 NIV)
The best part is that there are many ways to make a difference in any career. Whether you’re a nurse, a business owner, an artist, or a writer, you can serve God through your work. It’s partly about how you do your job. That means working with excellence, integrity, and love, as “unto the Lord” (Colossians 3:23-24), and being a witness to those around you.
It’s also about whom you serve with your job and your money. You can also have a massive impact on the world through any career by donating 10% or more of your salary to the best charities in the world.
Choosing Christian Career Opportunities: Final Thoughts
Ultimately, it's important to remember these 3 things:
Start with prayer and trust God in uncertainty. While you might not get immediate answers, bring your decisions to God and trust that He’s guiding you through it all.
Look beyond passion. Your career should be about using your God-given gifts, meeting the needs of the world, and glorifying Him in the process.
Don’t worry about choosing the “wrong” career because God won’t abandon you or His redemptive purposes. He will direct your steps, even if you take a quick detour every once in a while.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed about career choices, our team at Christians for Impact is always ready to help you with Christian career opportunities and free 1-on-1 career advice.
Check out our Christian jobs guide and learn about 15 impactful jobs commonly taken by Christians.
If this article encouraged you, share it with a friend, and make sure to subscribe to our newsletter below for advice on how to build an impactful career and monthly job opportunities.
