Actually, that would be almost 20 years later now. Four years ago, I wrote the following at the end of a post with the title “Never too important to be fired”:
I know not everyone reading this is a Christian, so you may be wondering where does this leave you? Let me tell you about the next 14 years—my reflection since this time remains the same even as I have worked mostly in non-Christian environments. These different companies all are excellent locations with superb, highly skilled people working there. No longer do I approach by job as if I am some example of “God’s gift to the organization.” Instead, in humility, I come to work so grateful for the chance to be in the organization. I work to the best of my ability, but maintain a healthy balance of work and life. I remind myself often that the moment I am no longer with the organization, they will fill my shoes (perhaps with someone better).
All of that helps me stay humble so that I can really do good work. It helps me avoid growing lazy, fat with the excess of having eaten the empty calories of puffery and vanity. It also reminds me that there is much more going on around me than meets the eye and its only my job to serve where He has placed me. Do my job well and with great valor and excellence; leave everything else to God and it will go well with my soul.
Since 2010, it’s still true! Don’t act like somehow you are irreplaceable. No one is! Instead, act like you realize that you are fortunate to have your job. For almost every job out there, someone else would love to have it, especially if you work anywhere full time with benefits. Even if you “only” have a part-time job, be happy. There are many would love to have your job.
Be grateful for the chance and ability to work. Realize you could not have a job. Do the work with grace and good spirit. Continue, even years later, to work so that you become someone that everyone else loves to work with (rather than, of course, being the person that when you walk in, people groan and roll their eyes).
Read the entire post from 2010. It’s a powerful story from my days as a Student Pastor in Winter Park. It could impact how you handle your next few days!