In certain circles, there’s a heroism associated with being a global worker. 

For a while, I specifically kept myself from mentioning Africa in conversations, even though I was yearning to bring it up. I knew the “special” status it offered among Christians, and honestly, I craved it. In the middle of exhaustion and sacrifice, it felt good to be honored. 

But at times, I’ve worn the title of “global worker” as a badge of honor, like one might proudly hand over a business card with a snazzy title. 

The danger, you see, is when I start believing my own press… When I add “global worker” to my identity as deeply loved child of God, as if it has VIP privileges or leverage for my prayers or status in his eyes… a sense of spiritual entitlement. 

Is being a global worker more special?  

I think through what Scripture says on this. I know Jesus asked 12 guys to leave other occupations to become “fishers of men.” I know the apostles in Acts said they shouldn’t give up preaching the gospel to “wait tables,” helping the poor. 

I know God asks us to give special honor to pastors who serve us, as their job of spiritual shepherding is real and praiseworthy. 

But I also know God crafts roles of all kinds (see Romans 12, 1 Corinthians 12, Ephesians 4). All critical. All worthy of honor. 

Would I be less worthy as a hairdresser? A burger-flipper? A writer? 

Henri Nouwen warns against three identity-robbing lies: I am what others think. I am what I have (control, power, possessions, position). I am what I do.

Each of these lies diverts our eyes from the Gospel and from verdict about ourselves which Christ has already won. God’s full approval. His enough-ness. His God-satisfying performance.