Secular And Sacred: Living Everyday with Purpose

By

Dayo Olomu

Last night, I was deeply honoured to share my insights with the executives of the Mother Union Croydon. We explored a theme close to my heart: bridging the false divide between our secular work and our sacred faith.

We often live in a world that insists on separation. But I believe this is a divide God never intended.

My guiding star is a quote from artist Mark Cazalet: ‘When I commit myself and my work into God’s hands it means there is no split between the sacred and the secular, so everything I do becomes interconnected and part of my dialogue with God.’

This makes sense because the God we worship is a worker. In Genesis, we see a creative, entrepreneurial God who invests Himself in His work and calls it good. My work matters to Him because work itself was His idea.

But how do we live this? For me, the answer came from an unexpected place: my professional code of conduct. The Seven Principles of Public Life aren’t just a secular guideline; they are a biblical blueprint for integrity.

Let me share this blueprint:

1. Selflessness: Act solely in the public interest. The Bible says: “…Look out for one another’s interests, not just for your own.” (Philippians 2:4)
2. Integrity: Avoid obligations that might influence you. “Good people are protected by their integrity.” (Proverbs 14:32)
3. Objectivity: Act impartially and without bias. “Do you, my friend, pass judgement on others? You have no excuse at all.” (Romans 2:1)
4. Accountability: Be accountable. A divine call to mutual accountability. (Hebrews 10:24-25)
5. Openness: Act transparently. “Kings want to hear the truth and favour those who speak it.” (Proverbs 16:13)
6. Honesty: Be truthful. “The honesty of good people makes their lives easier.” (Proverbs 11:3)
7. Leadership: Exhibit these principles. This is the summary of Christ’s call to be servants first.

This was my revelation. Writing a strategic document, mentoring a colleague, or chairing a board meeting wasn’t separate from my faith; it was the practical outworking of it. It was my ministry.

This journey of integration—from my faith in Nigeria to a defining moment in Stratford and a pilgrimage to Jerusalem—led me to discern a call to Lay Ministry. It wasn’t a call out of my secular work, but a call to integrate it more fully.

My passion is clear: I believe we are called to excel in the marketplace, in politics, in every sphere. To be so infused with God’s integrity that we advance Kingdom values simply by doing our jobs well.

My challenge to you this week: In your work, whatever it is, see it as your dialogue with God. Let your integrity be your witness, your objectivity be your testimony, and your leadership be your service. Let us live every day with purpose.

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