One of the most demotivating things at work is having a superior that exists to make your life miserable. How can work be a blessing when being with your boss is the epitome of hell on earth?
While there is often nothing we can do with bad managers and superiors, that's not to say that experiences with bad leadership cannot be a blessing to us. In fact, it is probable that God meant for you to be under your terror boss.
Paul said in Romans 13:1, "Let every person be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God." When the apostle said this, Rome was at that time under one of the worst emperors to ever rule - Emperor Nero.
Still, despite his bad leadership, Paul chose to honour the emperor, not because he deserved it but because Paul knew he was God-ordained. Why does God give us terror bosses?
There is no such thing as a perfect boss
I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but there is no such thing as a perfect boss. Even the best leaders will have their weak spots.
Instead of focusing on your leader's weaknesses, try looking instead at their strengths. If a leader is strict that means that he or she values excellence. If a leader is nosy, it means he or she cares about the results - and they may bring you up the ladder if they are favourable.
God uses imperfect people to show His grace
In 2 Corinthians 2:17, Paul says, "So to keep me from becoming conceited because of the surpassing greatness of the revelations, a thorn was given me in the flesh, a messenger of Satan to harass me, to keep me from becoming conceited."
There is reason to believe that this "thorn in the flesh" was actually a person. Whatever or whoever Paul was referring to, one thing was clear: he saw the hardship brought about as reason to celebrate in God's grace and love. When we are weak, that's where God's grace proves to be more than sufficient for us.
God uses imperfect people to mold our character
James 1:12 says, "Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him."
Trials and persecution help strengthen our view of the greatest reward the world has ever seen - the reward of growing in character and the revelation of who Christ is in our life. Your terror boss can help you grow your character and your faith in God exponentially.
In all seasons and in with every situation, God calls us to be grateful because he uses both good circumstances and bad circumstances, both good people and bad people to bring about His purposes for our life.
