Diane Paddison's Blog

When the pace of life picks up and the pressure builds, most of us slip into survival mode. We focus on the next task, the next crisis, the next thing that needs us. And somewhere in that grind, we stop seeing the things that are actually going right. We stop seeking out what’s working, what’s beautiful, and what’s quietly sustaining us in our everyday lives.

What if choosing to be grateful—intentionally, consistently, quietly—is how you start making a real impact in your community, your workplace, and your world? What if gratitude isn’t the result of peace, but the path to it?

Because when gratitude shows up, so does God. And where God is, transformation follows.

Gratitude: The Foundation of Connection

You want to make a difference. You want your work, your presence, your leadership to leave something better than it found. But the question is always the same: Where do I start?

Start with gratitude.

In 1 Thessalonians 5:18, Paul writes: “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”

Not after everything works out. Not once it gets easier. In all circumstances.

Because giving thanks isn’t just about being polite or positive. It’s an act of alignment. It realigns your heart with what God is doing right now. And that kind of posture creates space for real connection—with God, with others, and with the work in front of you.

The Science of Gratitude and Community

It turns out Scripture isn’t the only place singing gratitude’s praises.

According to a 2023 study published in the Journal of Positive Psychology, people who actively practice gratitude experience increased empathy, deeper relational satisfaction, and stronger resilience during conflict.

Another study from UC Berkeley found that expressing gratitude within work teams improves collaboration, psychological safety, and overall team performance.

So yes, gratitude is good for your soul. But it’s also good for your workplace.

When you lead with thankfulness, you give others permission to be seen, valued, and human. You stop measuring people by their output and start honoring them for their presence.

And from that place? Community can grow.

Gratitude Multiplies Impact

Here’s what we love about gratitude: it doesn’t just change how you feel. It changes what you do.

Grateful people give more, serve more, and lead with more humility and hope.

Why? Because gratitude reminds you that everything you have is a gift—and gifts are meant to be shared.

When you start seeing your workplace as a mission field, your time as an offering, your network as a ministry, your dollars as seeds? That’s when real impact begins.

That’s when the ripple effect starts.

How 4word Women Are Multiplying Gratitude

We see it happen all the time at 4word.

One woman joins a Community Group and gives thanks for the first time in months that she’s not alone.One woman says yes to the 4word Mentor Program and expresses gratitude that someone finally sees and believes in her potential.One donor gives out of gratitude for what 4word has meant in her life—and that gift helps equip the next generation of women to lead with faith.

These aren’t random moments of generosity. They are gratitude in motion.

And during our Year-End Giving campaign, that motion multiplies.

Because when one woman says yes, another woman feels seen.
When one woman gives thanks, another is encouraged.
When one woman gives, an entire community grows stronger.

That’s the power of gratitude.

What Gratitude at Work Looks Like

You don’t have to overhaul your life to start living gratefully. You just have to be willing to shift your posture.

Here are a few simple ways gratitude can strengthen your workplace community today:

1. Send a Thank-You Email That Isn’t About Results

Tell a coworker you appreciate how they handled a meeting or how they support the team. Make it personal, not performance-based.

2. Open a Meeting With Praise, Not Problems

Start your next team call by naming something you’re thankful for. Invite others to do the same.

3. Keep a Gratitude Journal for Work

Every day, write down three things you’re thankful for about your job. It might be a breakthrough, a lesson, or just a really good cup of coffee.

4. Celebrate Quiet Contributions

Shine a light on someone whose work often goes unnoticed. Gratitude doesn’t just belong to the loudest voices.

What Gratitude in Life Looks Like

And outside of work? Gratitude becomes your connection point with your people and with God.

1. Say Thanks Before You Ask

In prayer, start with gratitude. Acknowledge God’s faithfulness before laying down your needs.

2. Practice “Gratitude Walks”

Use your commute or a quick break to name what you’re thankful for out loud. Speak it over your day.

3. Text a Gratitude Note

Tell someone in your life—a friend, mentor, coworker, family member—how they’ve impacted you and how grateful you are.

4. Give From a Grateful Place

Whether it’s money, time, or attention, let your giving flow from a place of thanksgiving. Not duty. Delight.

You Don’t Need a Platform. Just a Posture.

To the woman who wants to make a difference but doesn’t know where to begin:

Start with gratitude.Start by looking at what you already have and saying, Thank You, Lord. Use this.Start by choosing to see your people through the lens of appreciation.Start by believing that your faithfulness, fueled by gratitude, is exactly the kind of impact the world needs more of.Start now.

And if you’re looking for a way to multiply your gratitude into something bigger, consider joining us this season through our Year-End Giving campaign. One donation. One ripple. One world changed.

Help us continue to make an impact on Christian women in the workplace that lasts. Give now through December 31, 2025, and watch your donation multiply its impact not just in your community—but around the world!

Click here to give now!

Since 2013, Jordan has helped 4word tell its story and live out its mission through 4word’s digital content. She is the host of 4word’s podcasts, Work, Love, Pray and Driven 4word. Jordan also writes and coordinates the weekly 4word blogs and emails, and oversees the social media team.

When not writing for 4word, Jordan enjoys working on her latest book idea, catching up on the latest episode of Supernatural, and going “Pin crazy” on Pinterest as she and her family dream about homestead living. Jordan holds a BS in Advertising and Public Relations from Liberty University and an MFA in Creative Writing from Full Sail University. She lives in Monroe, Georgia, with her husband, DJ, and their young children.

The post How Gratitude Builds Stronger Communities at Work and Home appeared first on 4word.

Raise your hand if you’ve ever thought, “I want to make an impact, but I have no idea where to start.”

You’re not the only one who’s had that thought.

When you’re navigating meetings, managing a team, mentoring emerging leaders in your workplace, or just trying to stay on top of life, it can be easy to feel like your day-to-day decisions aren’t really moving the needle on anything eternal.

You want to be someone who makes a difference. But when the pressure is high, the bandwidth is low, and the world feels too big to change, impact starts to feel like something reserved for someone else. Someone louder. Someone bolder. Someone with more time.

But here’s the truth 4word is passionate about proclaiming:

Lasting impact isn’t about one big act. It’s about everyday obedience, multiplied over time.

And the good news? That kind of impact is available to every single one of us.

Redefining Impact: It’s Not What You Think

In a world obsessed with going viral, impact is often measured in metrics: likes, shares, applause, promotions. But God measures differently.

In Luke 16:10, Jesus says, “Whoever is faithful in very little is also faithful in much.”

Faithfulness isn’t flashy. It looks like showing up. Speaking truth. Serving when it would be easier to sit out. It’s choosing integrity over influence, and stewardship over spotlight.

Lasting impact is built on a habit of obedience.

And it doesn’t have to be loud to be life-changing.

The Ripple Effect of Faithful Women

Throughout Scripture, we see how God works through consistent, courageous obedience:

Ruth followed Naomi and gleaned in fields—and became part of the lineage of Christ.Lydia opened her home to Paul and his companions—and helped establish the first house church in Philippi.The woman at the well dropped her jar and shared her story—and brought an entire village to Jesus.

None of these women set out to become a big deal. They simply said yes to what God asked of them in that moment.

And over time? Their impact multiplied.

What the Research Shows: Impact Starts Small

Recent studies affirm what Scripture teaches: daily faithfulness matters.

According to a Barna Group survey, nearly 70% of practicing Christian women say they want their work to contribute to something bigger than themselves. But only 36% feel confident that it actually does.

That gap often stems from underestimating the value of small, steady acts of faith in our workplaces and communities.

Sociologist Brené Brown echoes this in her research, saying, “People who have the greatest impact are not always the ones with the biggest platform. They are the ones who show up, over and over, with courage and consistency.”

What Impact Really Looks Like

At 4word, we believe true impact isn’t about big moments—it’s about faithful ones.

It’s the quiet combination of obedience, time, community, and God’s power that leads to lasting influence.

We’ve seen it lived out again and again:

A woman joins the 4word Mentor Program and learns to lead with both grace and grit.Another launches a 4word Community Group and creates a safe space for women to grow in faith and leadership.Someone attends a 4word Collaboratory and leaves with a strategy to shift her company’s culture.

No viral moments. No spotlights. Just intentional, daily steps of faith that multiply far beyond what we can see.

And your giving? It’s what makes every one of those stories possible.

So What Does Your Impact Look Like?

If you’re not sure where to start, here’s the great news: impact doesn’t begin with a position. It begins with posture. A heart that says, God, I’m willing.

Here are five signs you’re making a lasting impact—even if it doesn’t feel like it yet:

You show up with integrity when it would be easier to coast.You make space for others to be seen and heard.You pray over decisions, even small ones.You ask God for wisdom before you speak.You give when no one is watching.

That’s what spiritual impact looks like.

Practical Ways to Start Multiplying Your Impact

You don’t need more hours in the day. You just need intentionality. Here are a few ways to start building a legacy of obedience right now:

1. Pray Before You Start Your Workday

Even a 2-minute prayer can shift your perspective from “tasks to finish” to “opportunities to steward.”

2. Speak Life Into Your Colleagues

A word of encouragement might be the thing that keeps someone going. Don’t underestimate the power of a hallway conversation or post-meeting text.

3. Mentor One Person

You don’t need to know everything. Just offer what you’ve learned. Sharing your story can change someone else’s trajectory.

4. Invest in Kingdom Work

Whether it’s your time, your talent, or your treasure, giving toward organizations that align with your values is a tangible way to multiply your impact.

When you give to 4word during our Year-End Giving campaign, you join a ripple effect of women being equipped to lead with eternal purpose.

5. Trust God With the Results

You may never see the full scope of your impact—and that’s okay. The results are His responsibility. Your role is faithfulness.

You Don’t Have to Be Big to Be Powerful

So to the woman who wonders if her work matters: Yes, it does.

To the woman who wonders if her daily yes counts for anything: Yes, it does.

To the woman who thinks she has nothing to offer: Offer it anyway. God specializes in multiplying what we surrender.

Because real, lasting impact isn’t about doing something great once. It’s about being faithful every day.

And when faithfulness is multiplied in community, by God’s hand? It changes the world.

Help us continue to make an impact on Christian women in the workplace that lasts. Give now through December 31, 2025, and watch your donation multiply its impact not just in your community—but around the world!

Click here to give now!

Since 2013, Jordan has helped 4word tell its story and live out its mission through 4word’s digital content. She is the host of 4word’s podcasts, Work, Love, Pray and Driven 4word. Jordan also writes and coordinates the weekly 4word blogs and emails, and oversees the social media team.

When not writing for 4word, Jordan enjoys working on her latest book idea, catching up on the latest episode of Supernatural, and going “Pin crazy” on Pinterest as she and her family dream about homestead living. Jordan holds a BS in Advertising and Public Relations from Liberty University and an MFA in Creative Writing from Full Sail University. She lives in Monroe, Georgia, with her husband, DJ, and their young children.

The post What Faithful Women Know About Lasting Impact appeared first on 4word.

If you’ve ever sat down at your desk or logged into a Zoom meeting and thought, “Does any of this even matter?”—you’re not alone.

As Christian women in the workplace, we often carry the weight of wanting to do more, reach further, impact deeper. But we’re also carrying deadlines, budgets, relationships, and responsibilities that make that “bigger impact” feel so far away.

The truth? You don’t have to have a massive platform, a flawless resume, or the perfect plan to make a lasting, world-changing difference.

Sometimes all God needs is one act of obedience. One woman who says yes. One ripple that multiplies.

The Lie: “I’m Not Big Enough to Make a Difference”

This lie has deep roots. Culture measures impact by followers and funders. But God? He measures impact by faithfulness.

And time and again, Scripture shows us that He loves using seemingly ordinary women to change the course of history.

Let’s look at two such women whose acts of courage and obedience created a multiplying impact that still echoes today.

Deborah: The Woman Who Led When No One Else Would

In Judges 4, we meet Deborah—a prophet, judge, and the only woman in the Bible recorded as holding the top civic leadership role in Israel. She wasn’t just leading behind the scenes. She was front and center.

When Barak, the commander of Israel’s army, hesitated to lead a battle against their oppressors, Deborah didn’t back down. She said, “Certainly I will go with you… but because of the course you are taking, the honor will not be yours, for the Lord will deliver Sisera into the hands of a woman.” (Judges 4:9)

She had no military training, no army of her own, and no earthly guarantee of success. But Deborah’s obedience opened the door for Israel’s victory.

Her leadership led to 40 years of peace in the land.

That’s the multiplying power of one faithful woman.

Esther: The Woman Who Spoke When Silence Was Safer

Then there’s Esther. An orphan. A Jewish woman. A queen by what seemed like chance.

Except it wasn’t chance. God placed her exactly where she needed to be. And when the moment came to risk everything to save her people, her uncle Mordecai challenged her with the now-famous line:

“And who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?” (Esther 4:14)

Esther didn’t have the title of prophet or judge. She had beauty, yes, but she also had courage. And with one bold step into the king’s court, she changed the fate of an entire nation.

Her impact didn’t start with strategy. It started with obedience.

Modern Multipliers: What Today’s Christian Women Say About Impact

So what does this look like now? What does modern obedience look like when you work a full-time job, raise kids, serve your church, and still try to remember to drink enough water?

Here are a few consistent truths we found from Christian women in the workplace who are learning to multiply their impact one decision at a time:

1. Small Actions Matter More Than You Think

In a 2022 Barna study, 76% of Christian women surveyed said they believe they are “called to make a difference in the world,” but more than half struggle with knowing how.

Author and pastor Bianca Olthoff says, “You don’t need a stage to make an impact. You need a willingness to serve in obscurity, to speak truth in love, and to show up when it would be easier to scroll past.”

2. God Multiplies What We Surrender

Leadership coach Jo Saxton writes, “God has a habit of multiplying the resources and impact of women who offer Him whatever they have—even when it feels like it’s not enough.” 

It’s not about having more time or more talent. It’s about trusting God with what you do have and letting Him do the multiplying.

3. Impact Isn’t Always Loud

Sometimes your ripple effect will be public. But more often, it’ll be private.

A coworker who feels seen. A child who knows they’re loved. A mentor relationship that shifts the trajectory of someone’s life.

Impact isn’t about noise. It’s about presence.

How 4word Is Multiplying Women’s Impact Around the World

At 4word, we believe in the ripple effect of one faithful woman.

One woman joins a Community Group and gains confidence to bring her faith into meetings.One woman signs up for our Mentor Program and receives wisdom that shapes her career for decades.One woman attends a Collaboratory and launches a new initiative at her company that changes workplace culture.

This is what multiplying impact looks like.

And during our Year-End Giving campaign, we’re inviting you to be part of it.

Your one donation can help fuel hundreds of ripple effects around the world. One mentor. One group. One woman who starts to believe she is called to more.

Because she is. And so are you.

4 Ways to Multiply Your Impact Starting Today

You don’t have to wait for a title or a life-altering moment. Here’s how you can start stepping into your multiplying impact right where you are:

1. Pray Boldly

Ask God to open your eyes to the influence you already have. Pray for courage like Esther, clarity like Deborah, and conviction like Jesus.

2. Say Yes to the Small Thing

Obedience is rarely glamorous. But when you say yes to helping, showing up, or speaking truth—even when it’s hard or unnoticed—God sees it. And He multiplies it.

3. Invest in Other Women

Mentor a younger coworker. Share wisdom with a friend. Offer encouragement in your group text. Empowered women empower women.

4. Support Organizations That Multiply Impact

Whether it’s giving to 4word or volunteering your time, be part of something bigger than yourself.

Your generosity creates space for other women to rise. And when they rise, the ripple continues.

The World Doesn’t Need You to Be Perfect. It Needs You to Be Willing.

One step of obedience. One act of courage. One woman who says yes.

That’s all it takes to start a ripple that changes everything.

Just like Deborah. Just like Esther. Just like you.

Help us continue to make an impact on Christian women in the workplace that lasts. Give now through December 31, 2025, and watch your donation multiply its impact not just in your community—but around the world!

Click here to give now!

Since 2013, Jordan has helped 4word tell its story and live out its mission through 4word’s digital content. She is the host of 4word’s podcasts, Work, Love, Pray and Driven 4word. Jordan also writes and coordinates the weekly 4word blogs and emails, and oversees the social media team.

When not writing for 4word, Jordan enjoys working on her latest book idea, catching up on the latest episode of Supernatural, and going “Pin crazy” on Pinterest as she and her family dream about homestead living. Jordan holds a BS in Advertising and Public Relations from Liberty University and an MFA in Creative Writing from Full Sail University. She lives in Monroe, Georgia, with her husband, DJ, and their young children.

The post The Ripple Effect of Obedience: How Women Like You Multiply Impact appeared first on 4word.

Let’s talk about ambition.

For Christian women in the workplace, ambition can feel like a loaded word. We want to grow in our careers. We want to lead teams, launch big ideas, and finally apply for that promotion. But at the same time, we don’t want to come across as prideful, self-serving, or disconnected from God.

We’ve been taught humility is holy—and it is. But too often, we confuse humility with hiding. We shrink back instead of stepping forward. We downplay our gifts when God is asking us to steward them.

So how do you know if your ambition is God-honoring?

Not just good-for-you or impressive-on-LinkedIn, but truly rooted in your identity as a woman who loves Jesus and wants her work to reflect Him?

Here are three signs your ambition is grounded in godly purpose—plus tips to keep your eyes fixed on the One who gave you that drive in the first place.

1. Your Ambition Serves God and Others, Not Just Yourself

Worldly ambition says: Climb the ladder. Be the best. Get the recognition.

God-honoring ambition says: How can my success be a blessing to others?

When your ambition is truly aligned with God’s heart, it’s never just about you. It flows from a desire to make a difference, empower others, and create space for the Kingdom to show up in your work.

This might look like mentoring younger coworkers, leading your team with integrity, or using your influence to advocate for fair policies and practices. It might look like showing up with excellence not to prove yourself, but to create a standard of care and compassion in your organization.

Scripture Anchor: “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)

From the Field: In a recent article on Christian ambition from Propel Women, author Hannah Brencher writes, “Ambition isn’t wrong when it’s driven by the desire to serve more, love deeper, and create change that points people back to God.”

2. Your Ambition is Surrendered, Not Striving

Ambition without surrender leads to burnout. Ambition with surrender leads to peace and purpose.

God-honoring ambition is held with open hands. You’re still taking bold steps, still setting goals, still moving forward—but you’re trusting God with the outcomes.

You know your worth doesn’t come from the title or the corner office. You believe God can use both promotion and delay. You don’t manipulate your way to the top. You take the next faithful step and let Him direct your path.

Scripture Anchor: “Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans.” (Proverbs 16:3)

Stat to Know: A Barna Group study found that 69% of practicing Christian women in the workplace struggle with perfectionism and performance-based identity, which can lead to unhealthy striving. Surrendered ambition requires us to detach our identity from our output.

Faith Check-In: Ask yourself, “Would I still pursue this goal if no one ever applauded me for it?” If the answer is yes, there’s a good chance your ambition is rooted in purpose, not ego.

3. Your Ambition Aligns with God’s Character

This one’s big.

There are many forms of ambition that look noble on the outside but lead us away from who God created us to be. But when your ambition reflects His character—justice, compassion, creativity, stewardship, and truth—it becomes a force for good in the world.

God is the ultimate Creator, Strategist, and Visionary. He made you in His image (Genesis 1:27), so your desire to build and lead and innovate? That reflects Him.

Scripture Anchor: “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.”(Colossians 3:23)

Modern Example: Business leader and author Patrice Tsague recently shared that, “God-given ambition is marked by integrity and inspired by a bigger mission than your own success.”

So if you’re dreaming big and working hard to see justice done, people loved, or systems changed for the better—your ambition is mirroring God’s heart.

So, How Do You Grow God-Honoring Ambition?

Here are a few ways to check your heart and fuel your career goals with faith:

1. Journal with God regularly.

Ask: Why do I want this promotion? What do I fear if I don’t get it? Who could be blessed by me succeeding here?

2. Create a prayer partnership.

Find a friend or mentor to pray with you weekly about your goals, your mindset, and your growth. Invite God into every part of your career.

3. Celebrate progress, not just wins.

Sometimes the most faith-filled ambition is staying consistent when no one is watching.

4. Ask the Holy Spirit for daily discernment.

Before you jump into a new opportunity, pause and ask: Is this where You want me?

5. Encourage ambition in others.

Champion your coworkers. Brag on the intern. Speak life into the woman sitting across from you at the meeting.

Ambition doesn’t have to be a burden. It can be a blessing.

God wired you with passion and purpose for a reason. When you direct your drive toward serving others, surrender the outcome to Him, and walk in His character, your ambition becomes an act of worship.

So keep setting goals. Keep stepping up. Keep asking God to shape your dreams.

Because a faithful, ambitious woman? She’s not prideful. She’s powerful—in the hands of a powerful God.

Since 2013, Jordan has helped 4word tell its story and live out its mission through 4word’s digital content. She is the host of 4word’s podcasts, Work, Love, Pray and Driven 4word. Jordan also writes and coordinates the weekly 4word blogs and emails, and oversees the social media team.

When not writing for 4word, Jordan enjoys working on her latest book idea, catching up on the latest episode of Supernatural, and going “Pin crazy” on Pinterest as she and her family dream about homestead living. Jordan holds a BS in Advertising and Public Relations from Liberty University and an MFA in Creative Writing from Full Sail University. She lives in Monroe, Georgia, with her husband, DJ, and their young children.

The post 3 Signs Your Ambition is Rooted in God appeared first on 4word.

There’s a certain tension many of us are feeling these days—and no, it’s not just the group chat that won’t stop buzzing or the late-afternoon calendar invites. It’s the creeping fear that the algorithms are coming for our jobs.

Whether you’re in marketing, finance, HR, customer support, or tech, artificial intelligence has entered the workplace conversation like a surprise guest at a dinner party. Everyone’s trying to act cool about it, but deep down? A lot of us are wondering: Will I still matter in a world powered by AI?

The fear is real, and you’re not alone in feeling it. According to a 2023 Gallup survey, 22% of U.S. workers are worried that AI will eliminate their jobs, while nearly three-quarters (72%) believe AI will change how they do their work over the next few years.

But before we let our imaginations spiral into worst-case scenarios, let’s pause. Breathe. And remember something important: you are not your job title or your skill set. You are called, equipped, and placed by God in your workplace for a purpose that no machine can replicate.

Here are five things AI will never replace—and why they matter more than ever in today’s workplace.

1. Emotional Intelligence

No matter how advanced AI gets, it cannot empathize. It can mimic tone and respond to prompts, but it cannot feel.

Emotional intelligence (EQ) is the ability to understand, navigate, and respond to your own emotions and the emotions of others. It shows up in how you de-escalate conflict, encourage a coworker, or read between the lines of an awkward meeting.

Studies show that 90% of top performers have high emotional intelligence, and companies are increasingly prioritizing EQ in hiring and leadership development (TalentSmart, 2023).

Biblical Reminder: “Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn.” (Romans 12:15) — Emotional presence is ministry.

2. Discernment and Wisdom

AI can process data. You can seek God.

Discernment is about more than making a good decision—it’s about making the right decision in alignment with God’s will. AI may offer solutions, but only you can invite the Holy Spirit into a decision-making process.

AI might tell you who to hire based on a resume score, but it can’t sense someone’s character. It can write a compelling report, but it can’t hear the whisper of God telling you to pause or pivot.

Biblical Reminder: “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)

3. Creativity Rooted in Humanity

Yes, AI can write blogs (we know!), generate graphics, and even compose music. But its creativity is mimicry, not originality. It pulls from existing patterns; humans pull from lived experience.

Your unique perspective as a Christian woman in the workplace can never be replicated. The way you connect dots, draw from your story, and speak life into a project? That’s irreplaceable.

Stat to Note: According to the World Economic Forum, creativity remains in the top 5 most in-demand workplace skills and is expected to increase in value across industries (WEF Future of Jobs Report, 2023).

Biblical Reminder: “For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works.” (Ephesians 2:10) — Your creativity is part of your calling.

4. Relationship Building

AI can send follow-up emails. It can even simulate a helpful chat. But it can’t build trust over time. It can’t remember how a coworker prefers to receive feedback or pick up on a teammate’s bad day.

The power of workplace relationships isn’t transactional; it’s transformational. Your ability to show up, invest in people, and lead with kindness is what sets a healthy workplace apart from a functional one.

Stat to Note: Employees with strong workplace friendships are 50% more satisfied and seven times more likely to be engaged at work (Gallup, 2022).

Biblical Reminder: “Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds.” (Hebrews 10:24)

5. Faith and Purpose

AI can calculate probabilities, but it can’t hold purpose. It can offer suggestions, but it can’t pray over a decision. You bring something to the table that AI never will: a God-given identity, a Spirit-led mission, and a faith that fuels your work.

Your belief in something bigger than the bottom line is what helps your coworkers feel seen. It’s what drives you to work with excellence, forgive freely, and lead with humility.

Biblical Reminder: “Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans.” (Proverbs 16:3)

How to Embrace AI Without Losing Yourself

So what now? We don’t need to fear AI—but we do need to stay informed. Like any tool, it has the power to enhance your work if you approach it with wisdom and intentionality.

Here are some practical ways to stay grounded while growing:

1. Be curious, not intimidated.
Take time to explore AI tools that could support your work—from automation apps to writing assistants. Learning is part of leadership.

2. Use AI to multiply—not replace—your gifts.
Let AI handle repetitive tasks so you can focus on relationship-building, strategic thinking, and creative problem-solving.

3. Invite God into the learning curve.
When you feel behind or overwhelmed, pause. Ask the Lord for wisdom, courage, and clarity. He’s not surprised by AI—and He’s not done using you.

4. Partner with others.
Start an internal AI learning group at work or find a mentor who’s ahead of the curve. You weren’t meant to navigate this alone.

5. Know your irreplaceable value.
When imposter syndrome hits, return to this truth: You are chosen, equipped, and dearly loved by a God who makes no mistakes.

AI will continue to change how we work. But it will never replace why we work—to glorify God, serve others, and walk in the calling placed uniquely on our lives.

So keep showing up. Keep leading with faith. And know that no matter how fast technology evolves, your value in the workplace isn’t up for negotiation.

Since 2013, Jordan has helped 4word tell its story and live out its mission through 4word’s digital content. She is the host of 4word’s podcasts, Work, Love, Pray and Driven 4word. Jordan also writes and coordinates the weekly 4word blogs and emails, and oversees the social media team.

When not writing for 4word, Jordan enjoys working on her latest book idea, catching up on the latest episode of Supernatural, and going “Pin crazy” on Pinterest as she and her family dream about homestead living. Jordan holds a BS in Advertising and Public Relations from Liberty University and an MFA in Creative Writing from Full Sail University. She lives in Monroe, Georgia, with her husband, DJ, and their young children.

The post You Are Not Replaceable: Faith and Work in the Age of AI appeared first on 4word.

Leadership isn’t meant to be a solo journey. And for women navigating high-stakes industries while staying rooted in faith, that truth is even more profound. Jana Gridley, a seasoned communications professional and founder of the Oklahoma City chapter of 4word , embodies this principle. Through her work with 4word luncheons and community groups, Jana has created spaces where Christian women can grow spiritually, professionally, and personally—proving that community is as essential to leadership as skill and strategy.

From Two-Step to Trailblazing Leadership

Jana has a playful side you might not guess at first. “I love two-step—country dancing,” she shares. It’s a hobby that stems back to her college days at a small Baptist school in West Texas. She remembers traveling to a nearby town for old-fashioned dances with live cowboy bands, paying a mere $3 to enter and sneak in a few snacks. “Sometimes you ended up with a real cowboy who knew what he was doing. It was a lot of fun,” she says, laughing.

That joy in connecting with others, even on the dance floor, mirrors the philosophy that guides her professional life: relationships matter. Whether dancing or leading a chapter, Jana believes in creating spaces where people feel seen, valued, and empowered.

A Communications Career Rooted in Adaptability

Interestingly, a career in communications wasn’t Jana’s original plan. She studied political science and legal studies in college, but her natural talent for communication quickly steered her path. “In high school, I competed in a speech competition, won a scholarship, and thought, ‘I’m good at this, and I enjoy it,’” she recalls.

Over the past 25 years, Jana’s career has spanned industries ranging from government and politics to nonprofits, telecom, publishing, and dental consulting. Today, she serves as Brand and Marketing Manager for Claims Management Resources, a niche company assisting state transportation departments and public and private utilities with property damage claims recovery.

Even in male-dominated industries, Jana has used her faith and professionalism to stand out. “Much of the marketing happens around conferences with government executives, engineers, utility workers, fleet managers, and other industry professionals.vendors. I definitely stand out, but I use that to my advantage. I make sure I’m prepared, professional, and approachable,” she explains.

Leading in Faith: Christ-Like Leadership in Action

For Jana, leadership is never separate from faith. She recalls a pivotal moment in her career when she recognized the need for strategy and structure in her marketing department. “I essentially built the department from scratch, even rewriting my job description after two years,” she shares.

At first, her colleagues and leadership were unsure. But Jana approached the challenge with patience, humility, and perseverance. “Through prayer and reflection, I sought to respond with humility and perseverance rather than frustration,” she says. Over time, trust grew, her responsibilities expanded, and she gained the confidence of a mostly male leadership team.

Jana’s approach highlights a key difference in Christian leadership: dependability, authenticity, and commitment to growth. “Strong Christian leaders show up, take ownership, and serve with gladness. Their faith grounds them, making them both dependable and resilient,” she notes.

The “Why” Behind Oklahoma City’s Polished Chapter

Jana didn’t just want to lead in her company—she wanted to create a community for women in the workplace to grow spiritually and professionally. Frustrated by limited opportunities in her church and seeking to integrate her professional and spiritual life, she posted on Facebook: Was there a Christian community for professional women in Oklahoma City? There wasn’t—so she started one.

“What drew me was not only the professional and spiritual support, but also the gospel focus. We welcome women at any stage of faith, which excited me,” she says.

The Oklahoma City chapter now provides hundreds of women with an encouraging,  authentic space. They gather for meals, discussions, and inspiring speakers, learning to integrate faith into their work while building meaningful connections.

“Our community  has become a space where women don’t have to explain themselves, where they can be fully seen and supported,” Jana says. Without it, she admits, she would feel lonely and lack a sense of purpose.

Mentorship and Community: The Core of Growth

Jana emphasizes that mentorship is critical for women at all levels. “It’s more than networking. Women find jobs, build friendships, and gain spiritual encouragement. For example, one woman new to Oklahoma City found her community through us, got plugged into church, and landed a job. She told us, ‘I’ve found my people,’” Jana says.

The chapter also fosters leadership development for women who may not have had previous opportunities. “Many of our ambassadors hadn’t led before in church settings, but when given opportunities in our chapter, they flourished,” she notes. By intentionally matching women to roles aligned with their strengths, Jana ensures that the chapter cultivates growth, confidence, and purpose.

Faith-Driven Leadership in Action

Through 4word local gatherings, Jana has shown that Christian women can lead boldly while staying grounded in faith. By providing mentorship, spiritual guidance, and practical leadership experience, these groups give women tools to succeed in the workplace without compromising their values.

“When I explain our network to others, even if someone doesn’t share my faith, they respect the authenticity and the work we do,” Jana says. That authenticity creates lasting connections that empower women to take risks, grow professionally, and serve in leadership roles with integrity.

The Ripple Effect of 4word Chapters

Jana’s work highlights the transformative power of community. Women who participate in 4word Community Groups gain confidence, resources, and support to navigate the challenges of their careers. They also experience the encouragement that comes from being part of a network committed to God-centered growth.

“The most valuable thing has been the community. Women crave a space where they can be themselves,” Jana explains. “There’s something life-giving about being in a room with hundreds of women pursuing the same integration of faith and work.”

For leaders like Jana, the 4word network is more than a professional development tool—it’s a mission. By creating spaces where Christian women can thrive, she amplifies impact not only within the workplace but across communities.

Why Every Woman Needs a Community of Support

Jana’s story is a powerful reminder that no woman needs to navigate her career alone. Whether through mentorship, chapter luncheons, or discussion groups, support networks like 4word provide the encouragement, accountability, and spiritual guidance women need to succeed.

“It’s an encouraging moment in your week—a chance to step away from work and connect with supportive women,” Jana says. “It’s a safe, authentic space where women can be vulnerable, find resources, and recharge spiritually and professionally.”

For women at all levels of leadership, especially those operating in male-dominated industries or seeking faith-based guidance for their career, 4word local gatherings offer a platform for growth, connection, and transformation. Jana’s experience shows that when women are supported, equipped, and connected, their impact reaches far beyond their individual careers.

Jana Gridley, a Texas native, has been a proud resident of Oklahoma for over 25 years. She is Brand and Marketing Manager for Claims Management Resources. A seasoned communications professional, Jana has enjoyed working in a variety of industries including transportation/utility subrogation, government/politics, nonprofit, telecom, publishing, and dental consulting, giving her a variety of experience and diverse network within the Oklahoma City metro.

She serves as Commissioner on the Oklahoma Commission on the Status of Women after being appointed in 2021 by Gov. Kevin Stitt. Jana is founder and co-director of the Oklahoma City chapter of Polished, a faith + work network for women. She is passionate about women leading out in the workplace, community, and local church using their God-given talents. She is a graduate of Hardin-Simmons University with a BBS in Political Science and Communication.

A busy mother of two teenage boys, Hollis and Kanon, Jana is married to Dan, an Assistant United States Attorney for the Western District of Oklahoma. They live in Edmond and are active members of King’s Cross Presbyterian Church. Jana enjoys cooking, entertaining, and reading anything from newspapers to novels whenever possible.

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When you meet Kathy Book, you might first notice her warm smile or the way she lights up when she talks about food. But behind that approachable presence is a woman with a mission—a mission to help Christian women thrive in their careers while staying rooted in faith. Kathy spent over 22 years with the Kroger family of stores, carving out a path defined by creativity, leadership, and faith. And now as VP of Perishables at On-Shelf Marketing Group (OSMG) and through his ministry, Kathy is using her experience and heart for mentorship to lift other women in the workplace.

Painting a Picture of Purpose

Most people would never guess that Kathy is also an accomplished painter. She works primarily with acrylics, painting landscapes that reflect both beauty and meaning. “It’s something that truly feels like a gift from God,” she says. “I didn’t grow up painting or drawing—I’m very left-brained, so it’s almost like the right-brain kicks in when I paint.”

Kathy’s art began as a stress-reliever when she moved to Cincinnati, but it quickly became an act of worship. At one point, she felt God nudge her: paint one piece a week and give it away. From July to December of that year, she did exactly that—painting weekly and gifting her work to friends, coworkers, even a janitor at Kroger. “It’s a ministry for me in many ways,” she reflects. And in that ministry, she discovered something powerful: connection.

“When I paint for someone, I often feel God’s love for them in a really tangible way. Whether I know the person well or barely at all, it’s a meaningful connection, and I believe God works through it,” Kathy says.

This instinct to serve and connect would later become a cornerstone of her “why”—her personal mission to empower other women, spiritually and professionally.

The Surprising Journey at Kroger

Kathy’s love for food began in her childhood on a small farm with cows, pigs, and a garden that produced vegetables they canned for winter. “It was truly farm-to-table before that was a trend,” she laughs. Cooking wasn’t just about nourishment; it was about community and care. That same sense of purpose carried her through her career.

She joined Kroger and quickly realized that God was working through her roles in unexpected ways. At one point, she was even considering leaving to pursue culinary school, dreaming of opening her own restaurant. But God had other plans. “I realized God was opening doors within Kroger. I eventually moved into roles in new product development, culinary innovation, and even opened a restaurant as part of my role,” Kathy says.

Some of the positions she held didn’t even exist before she arrived. She helped create them—an incredible example of leadership and initiative. She managed Kroger’s relationship with Starbucks, launched sushi concepts, and navigated the complexities of third-party vendor relationships—all while staying true to her love of food and people.

“It was amazing to watch it unfold,” she recalls. “Once I accepted that this was the path God wanted me on, my career shifted completely. I began writing recipes for products and taking on new roles. I was all in.”

Integrating Faith and Work

Faith was always important to Kathy, even in the corporate world. At Kroger, she started a women’s Bible study during lunch. Her boss blocked her lunch hour to ensure she could lead the group without interruption. “There were also a couple of men’s Bible study groups that met early in the morning,” Kathy remembers.

But being a Christian in the workplace wasn’t always easy. Toward the end of her tenure at Kroger, she faced challenges that tested her identity. “I was very achievement-oriented at work and spiritually engaged outside of it, but I hadn’t integrated the two. I was being called to be one whole person,” she says.

The pressure became overwhelming. She wasn’t sleeping, anxiety was creeping in, and she realized she was becoming someone she didn’t want to be. Eventually, God made it clear it was time to leave Kroger, even when it felt uncomfortable.

Finding the “Why” After Leaving Kroger

Leaving Kroger didn’t mean stepping away from purpose—it meant stepping into it. That year, Kathy rested, reflected, and listened to where God was leading. But rest didn’t mean inactivity. Women began reaching out, asking to continue the Bible studies. What started as a small group evolved into eight weekly Bible studies across the city.

Kathy also began writing curriculum—a brand-new skill. “I had no writing experience—but my last name is Book, so God clearly has a sense of humor,” she laughs. With help, she created 13 different four-week studies and founded Women in the Marketplace (WIM), a nonprofit designed to help working women grow in faith, build relationships, and impact their communities.

“The name came from the Experiencing God study—it referenced Jesus being in the marketplace, and I thought, ‘That’s what we are. Women in the marketplace,’” she explains.

Her “why” had taken shape: to empower women to integrate faith into their professional lives, offering mentorship, tools, and community for growth.

Bringing Mentorship Into the Workplace

Kathy’s passion didn’t stop at small groups. She wanted women on her team at OSMG to experience faith-based leadership development firsthand. One employee’s transformation through a leadership program inspired her to expand opportunities for more team members.

“OSMG is a faith-based company. We serve God, our clients, and each other. As we grow, I want the young women who will eventually lead this company to lead like Jesus,” Kathy says. Her goal is to create an environment where faith and work intersect, where mentorship and leadership development are grounded in biblical principles.

She explains the value simply: “When you engage in mentorship and leadership development rooted in faith, you gain practical tools, encouragement, and a deeper sense of how your faith shapes your leadership. You also build lifelong relationships.”

Her approach isn’t exclusive to women; men have shown interest, too. But Kathy finds that gender-specific groups allow for deeper vulnerability and connection.

The Ripple Effect of Faith-Based Mentorship

Kathy’s work demonstrates that supporting Christian women in the workplace doesn’t just benefit the individuals—it strengthens the teams and companies they lead. Her mentorship fosters confidence, relational skills, and spiritual integration. She believes that helping women grow in faith and leadership isn’t just charitable—it’s transformational.

“This is about creating space for women to be their whole selves—to bring faith into their work, to lead with integrity, and to support others as they grow,” she says.

Through her leadership initiatives at OSMG, Kathy’s mission continues to expand. The ripple effect is clear: women gain confidence, grow in skill, and inspire others to follow their example.

Why Kathy’s Story Matters

Kathy’s journey shows that leadership isn’t just about titles or responsibilities—it’s about purpose, faith, and service. It’s about finding your “why” and helping others discover theirs.

From the farm-to-table kitchen of her childhood to the corporate leadership of OSMG, Kathy has integrated her faith, passion for food, creativity, and mentorship into a life mission. Her story reminds us that leadership with purpose impacts not only the individual but entire communities.

“Empowering Christian women in the workplace isn’t just my mission—it’s my calling. When women are equipped to lead with faith, integrity, and confidence, they can change their workplaces, their industries, and their communities,” she says.

For anyone looking to make an impact in the workplace while staying grounded in faith, Kathy Book’s journey is both inspiration and blueprint. It’s a story of listening to God’s call, embracing opportunity, and turning passion into purpose.

Kathy Book is VP of Perishables at On-Shelf Marketing Group, a local broker for the Kroger family of stores. She has over 22 years’ experience working for the Kroger Co. She was previously Director of Culinary Development where she was responsible for leading innovation and new food concept development.

Prior to that, she was Director of Food Service on the deli/bakery team, where she was responsible for Starbucks, Sushi and other third-party relationships. She also held the position of Sr Category Manager for grocery and Corporate Brand Sr Culinary Innovation Manager, where she led innovation and strategy work across all departments.

Kathy received a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting from Butler University in Indianapolis. She has been named one of Progressive Grocer’s Top Women in Grocery. Kathy also founded a women’s ministry called Women in the Marketplace, Inc, a non-profit that helps working women grow in faith, build relationships and impact the community.

The post A Woman on Mission: Kathy Book’s Journey of Faith and Leadership appeared first on 4word.

Pain. It surrounded me. I was in a foreign country on a mission trip. But I was visited by an old nemesis—a migraine. My rescue medication failed. I shuddered in pain under a thin blanket trying to block out the light, praying desperately for the pain to dissipate. Occasionally, a cool hand graced my forehead, checking for a fever followed by a kiss and murmurs in Telegu that I did not understand. Often, in my delirium, my arms would lash out in defense at these touches only to quickly mumble, “sorry.” Later, I would discover that my nurse was a precious 15-year-old girl who had been abused throughout her life. And despite my pain-induced lashing, she continued to minister to me with patience and kindness. Her kindness brings tears to my eyes.

Throughout my time in India, hospitality from our hosts was both ordinary and extraordinary. Ordinary in that we experienced it from all that we encountered but extraordinary in that the hospitality experienced is a far cry that what we normally experience stateside. Permit me to provide one more example: coffee.

Importantly, the coffee in the southern region of India is quite simply the best coffee. Having it with dear friends in India is even better. This is what I observed. Every greeting is joined by an offer of coffee. They often jokingly made sure to serve coffee in the American-sized coffee cups instead of the smaller, Indian-sized teacups. At the orphanage, the children spent time with us in the morning. When our coffee cups became empty, they took them to the kitchen or asked if we wanted a refill. They knew the importance of having enough coffee in the morning! If the women got up to prepare the coffee, the men hopped up to grab the mugs.

So why did this matter? Because coffee always matters. But it’s so much more than that. Hospitality is the cornerstone of saying, “I see you. You are valued. You are loved.” And that is what Jesus did (and does). His first miracle was providing wine at a wedding. (John 2:1-11) But he didn’t provide just any wine—he provided the best wine they had ever had! And we see him feeding people in miraculous ways. (Luke 9:10-17) He could have just as easily sent them away to eat at their homes.

How do we practice extraordinary hospitality like Jesus and my Indian friends? First, we observe. We look up from our phones, our distractions, our busy lives, and engage with the people around us. Second, we act intentionally. We hold the door. We offer the specific help (not how can we help but can we help in this way). We ask if we can pray—and then we do it! Finally, we recognize the heart posture may come later. The fruits of the spirit are just that—fruits—they are a product of growth from the Holy Spirit. Ask him to do the work in you. Ask him to give you a spirit of hospitality and he will. He will open your eyes to opportunities to show Christ’s love to others. For that is what we are commanded to do—Love our neighbors. Let’s do that in extraordinary ways and watch what Christ does with it.   

Tiffanie Limbrick is an attorney and mama to Josh. She is passionate about leading and empowering women both in and outside of the workplace. Tiffanie believes that every woman has the power to change the world, even if it’s just her little corner of the world. When Tiffanie is not running after Josh, you can catch her curled up on the couch reading a good book.

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Trust can feel like a fragile thing in the workplace, especially when everything around you is shifting. Whether it’s a change in leadership, restructuring, or even the quiet tension of unspoken uncertainty, many women in the workplace find themselves wondering: Who can I trust right now? Or more honestly: Can I trust anyone right now?

A 2023 study by McKinsey found that more than 60% of employees feel uncertain about their company’s direction, a feeling that directly contributes to lower engagement and productivity. When we feel unsure about who we can rely on—or whether our workplace values align with our own—it becomes harder to focus, connect, and lead with confidence.

Trust is more than a feeling. It’s a framework. And like any good structure, it has key components that help it stand firm when everything else starts to wobble. For Christian women in the workplace, trust isn’t just a strategy—it’s a spiritual discipline, rooted in a relationship with God and reflected in our relationships with others.

So how can we rebuild or strengthen trust when it feels like everything is in flux? Let’s explore together.

A Faith-Based Anchor: Trust

Trust isn’t just a nice workplace perk—it’s a spiritual discipline. Proverbs 3:5-6 reminds us:

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”

This passage doesn’t ask us to trust only when we can see the outcome or when the team is performing well. It calls us to trust even in uncertainty. Especially in uncertainty.

The good news? Trust isn’t blind. It can be built—with God, and with each other.

To understand how we can practically foster trust in our workplaces, let’s look at The 4 Factors of Trust identified by organizational psychologist Charles Feltman:

SincerityReliabilityCompetenceCare

These four traits help us define what trustworthy behavior looks like—and what it takes to trust others well.

1. Sincerity: Walking in Truth and Transparency

Sincerity is about honesty. It’s when your words match your actions, and when people believe you’re saying what you truly mean.

In the workplace, sincerity builds trust because it cuts through confusion. When someone communicates openly—whether that’s a manager owning up to a mistake or a teammate clarifying expectations—it creates space for trust to grow.

Faith Check-In: Jesus said, “Let your ‘Yes’ be ‘Yes,’ and your ‘No,’ ‘No'” (Matthew 5:37). That’s sincerity in action. And it starts with us.

Try this: Begin a faith-based journaling practice to ask, “Where can I be more honest with God, with myself, and with my team?” Invite the Holy Spirit to show you.

2. Reliability: Showing Up with Consistency

When coworkers know they can count on you to do what you say you’ll do, trust builds. Reliability turns trust from a warm feeling into a sturdy bridge.

But we’re human. We miss deadlines. We overbook. We drop balls. That’s why grace and communication matter. Owning your limits doesn’t make you less reliable—it makes you more trustworthy.

Faith Check-In: Jesus encourages us in Matthew 6:34, “Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.” We don’t have to control everything—we just need to show up faithfully today.

Try this: Invite a prayer partner into your week. Share your to-do list and ask for accountability and prayer for the strength to show up well.

3. Competence: Offering Your Best with Humility

Competence isn’t about having all the answers. It’s about offering the skills, wisdom, and experience you do have—with a teachable heart.

When your team sees that you know your craft and you’re open to growth, they trust you more. And when you seek their input? Trust grows both ways.

Faith Check-In: Colossians 3:23 encourages us to “work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men.” Excellence is a form of worship.

Try this: Set aside 10 minutes this week to affirm a colleague’s strengths. Text them, tell them, email them. Honor their competence and build trust.

4. Care: Leading with Empathy and Compassion

This is where trust comes to life. Care is about showing others that they matter—not just for what they do, but for who they are.

When a coworker feels seen and supported, they trust you more deeply. And in times of workplace change, care becomes the glue that holds a team together.

Faith Check-In: In Matthew 6:26, Jesus reminds us, “Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?” That’s the heart of care: seeing the value in others because God sees it in us.

Try this: Ask one colleague this week how they’re really doing. Then listen without rushing to respond. Sometimes trust is built simply by being present.

Trusting God When the Ground Shifts

Of course, trust in the workplace isn’t just about people. It’s about entrusting our fears, our careers, and our outcomes to God.

When leadership changes, deadlines feel impossible, or layoffs loom, we don’t always get to choose the circumstances. But we can choose who we trust.

Jesus modeled this perfectly in Matthew 6:25-34, urging us not to worry but to “seek first His kingdom and His righteousness.” In other words, trust God first. Then move forward.

Try this: The next time workplace anxiety rises, take one minute to pause and pray this breath prayer:

Inhale: Lord, I trust You.
Exhale: Direct my next step.

Practical Takeaways: How to Cultivate Trust at Work

To build trust IN others:

Assume positive intent before jumping to conclusions.Listen more than you speak.Celebrate a teammate’s win without comparing it to your own.Choose grace when someone drops the ball.

To become more trustworthy yourself:

Communicate early and honestly.Ask for help before you hit a breaking point.Do what you say you’ll do—or explain why you can’t.Pray for God to make you a trustworthy leader.

You don’t need to be perfect to build trust. You just need to show up with sincerity, reliability, competence, and care. And trust that God is working through your presence more than your performance.

Because even when the workplace feels uncertain, our God never is.

Since 2013, Jordan has helped 4word tell its story and live out its mission through 4word’s digital content. She is the host of 4word’s podcasts, Work, Love, Pray and Driven 4word. Jordan also writes and coordinates the weekly 4word blogs and emails, and oversees the social media team.

When not writing for 4word, Jordan enjoys working on her latest book idea, catching up on the latest episode of Supernatural, and going “Pin crazy” on Pinterest as she and her family dream about homestead living. Jordan holds a BS in Advertising and Public Relations from Liberty University and an MFA in Creative Writing from Full Sail University. She lives in Monroe, Georgia, with her husband, DJ, and their young children.

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In this thoughtful and vulnerable reflection, Jeannie Rose Barksdale unpacks the complicated gift of feedback—especially the kind that stings or surprises. Drawing from a real-life workplace encounter, Jeannie explores how even feedback we ultimately reject can be a spiritual invitation: to deepen relationships, widen our perspective, cultivate humility, and reaffirm our dependence on God. With wisdom and grace, she reminds us that growth isn’t just about getting it right—it’s about staying grounded in God’s love, even when our confidence is shaken.

You’re bursting with excitement, eager to share with a few colleagues how you’ve been attacking a problem, show off your boundless initiative and dedication. As you roll off a list of what you’ve done, you’re positively purring, gleaming with pride in all that good work. You’re not chasing their applause of course, but naturally you think they’ll be happy about your progress, if not downright impressed.

What you don’t expect is to abruptly run aground on a jarring critique, inserted into your elation like a pin pricking a balloon.

Been there? I have. A colleague I trust was acting in good faith interrupted my reverie with the kind of rhetorical question which isn’t so much food for thought as a full-fledged mic-drop. The implication was clear—the supposedly amazing next step I’d proposed was a bomb waiting to explode. Worse than the correction itself was the unsaid logical conclusion, the self-directed accusations I felt burning in my chest: my failure to spot the problem showed just how naïve and unseasoned I really was. Could I even be trusted? Was any of my work worthwhile?

Except—I wasn’t sure I agreed with the critique. I thought about it for some time, wavering between second-guessing and trusting my own intuition. Was this feedback valid? If not, what to do with it?

When I was younger, I would have unreservedly accepted such guidance, backing down along a trail of mea culpas. This wasn’t for the love of feedback, or my belief in its wisdom, so much as an unhealthy need to people-please. Others may have the opposite default reaction, knee-jerk self-protection and defensiveness shielding any possible entry of alternate perspective. Both responses miss, however, the way that feedback is a gift.

Oh, I know, you’ve heard it before: feedback is a gift. Usually that means that feedback is a gift because it points out a problem you aren’t aware of, offering a chance to address it and improve. That’s often true.

But what about feedback you ultimately don’t end up taking, or fully accepting as valid? 

I think even that kind of feedback offers a few different kinds of gift.

A gift of relationship

Offering a caution or contrary word often means taking a relational risk. A person is voicing something we may not like because they care about us. Even if the other person thrives on challenge, they’re still taking time to notice and engage us. Responding to that offer as a gift allows us to strengthen our tie to someone who is seeking our good even if we don’t take their advice.

A gift of perspective

Even if we don’t ultimately think the feedback is valid, considering it allows us to see things another way, an angle we might not have had without the input. At worst, we have a chance to gut-check our own view, make sure we really know why we think the way we do and can stand behind it. And because most things aren’t black and white, more light on the subject may well offer additional insight, even if in the form of a zig zag from the original idea or the critique.

A gift of humility

It’s easy to sail through life on waves of unseen assumptions, riding an untested certainty about our view of the world. The humility to detach from the belief that our way is the only way takes practice to achieve, but when cultivated, opens us to a richer diversity of experience. I had an experience of this as a high school exchange student, when I noticed mid-way through a meal with my Bangkok host family, where the table was set for all of us with the familiar fork and spoon, I was the only one using the fork to put food in my mouth. I learned that the normal way to eat in Thailand was to eat from the spoon. Feedback is like a mini-exchange experience, helping us learn that what we take for granted as normal may not be, building humility in the process.

A gift of dependence

Feedback triggers a lot of emotion. Receiving it creates an opportunity to pause and notice what is going on inside. Does the suggestion that we got it wrong provoke the fear of being imperfect or not enough? The shame of ‘should have known’? Worry we’ve been caught as imposter? Whether the feedback is ultimately ‘correct’ is irrelevant to the very real internal dynamics it can unearth. As painful as that can be, it is a priceless chance to realign with reality: we are in fact finite, imperfect creatures; we can’t do it all, know it all, please everyone. We are dependent on each other—and more, on the God who loves us, for the security, wisdom, and worth we crave. Not because our work is beyond critique, but because despite our mistakes, or people’s misunderstanding of us, we can still rest in the security of God’s unchanging love. In fact, it is when we feel the most unworthy of earning love we can most fully rest in its power as truly unconditional. 

So what did I do with this colleague who offered feedback I wasn’t sure I should heed? 

What you do with any gift: I offered in return a heartfelt thanks. 

Based in Washington, DC, Jeannie Rose Barksdale is a partner at boutique firm Castañeda + Heidelman and previously served as General Counsel for International Justice Mission. As an attorney, she uses her legal expertise to empower mission-driven organizations to pursue their calling more effectively; as a writer, spiritual director and retreat leader, she does the same, attending to the soul. With her husband Nate, she is the parent of three young children, who provide excellent fodder for formation, reflection, and wonder. She writes at tangible.ink.

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