Betsy Stokes

Occupation

Homemaker, Copy Editor

How do you define "vocation"?

It depends on what your role is in your family. This is divided often along gender lines. Either way, a vocation is the way that a person supports his family, takes his place in society, and contributes to his community and the world. Sometimes the vocation provides financial support to his family and the community. Often for wives, a vocation is how she contributes to the community in ways other than making money.

How has your faith influenced your major choice and/or career decisions?

Due to my faith, I felt free to choose the major that truly contributed to my happiness. I knew that I was free to pursue my dreams, because God is not "a respector of persons," meaning that He cares about our hearts, not our titles or how successful we are in the world's eyes. I was free to take contentment in my standings in God's family, not in my title or recognition I might receive with a certain degree or career. King David himself was a humble shepherd before God elevated him above an entire nation.

How has your Christian identity shaped your sense of self and awareness of your spiritual gifts?

The most important understanding I've gained from my "Christian identity" is the one thing that, if taken unwisely, can lead to a very unhealthy sense of self, indeed. This is the understanding that I am, through and through, a black-hearted sinner bent on my own destruction. Sounds extreme, I know. But when (and only when) coupled with the truth of how God chose long ago to give me His righteousness, it's a very freeing, humbling, and peaceful reality. As for spiritual gifts, I am the more in awe of them, and I realize that apart from Christ, I am unable to accomplish anything of eternal good. His spiritual giftings to me allow me to have a part in His eternal plan.

Please share your personal and work related values as they relate to your vocation.

The value that has come up the most has been truthfulness. I've lost one client because I refused to lie. But I know that I gained the unending respect of my colleagues. People never forget when you refuse to lie or to gossip. It just stands out so dramatically. Another value that affects my work is a sense of biblical fairness. The Bible clearly states that cheating a worker (or a worker cheating a boss) is detestible to God.

What words of wisdom would you like to share with others searching for their personal calling?

Follow your dreams. Don't knock yourself out trying to figure out what God wants you to do. Ask Him, and listen to your spirit, which the Bible promises is in communion with His Spirit. Seek advice from those whom you respect. Stay away from sin that may cloud your judgement: drunkenness, sex outside of marriage, greed, rage, etc.