David Ee is pursuing professional development studies at Carey Baptist College, whilst being a volunteer leader at his church. He is part of Pakuranga Baptist Church in Auckland.
Work stress impacts one in five New Zealand workers, says a report from the Mental Health Foundation of New Zealand. One area of work where that statistic is being fulfilled is the public sector. In 2023 there were 63,117 full-time equivalent public servants working across a wide range of occupations, with just under half working in the Wellington region.[1]
Right now, public servants across government departments face stress and mental health challenges as the National Government’s cost-savings exercise starts to hit full swing.
As of 12 August, public sector cuts numbered 6419, RNZ reported,[2] with the Ministries for Education and Social Development and Oranga Tamariki worst affected.
Having worked in the public sector, I have experienced criticism and disrespect, and have observed it directed at the government as a whole. In my experience this has added unnecessary stress and a negative effect on the working environment.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, government departments faced increased strain and financial difficulties, leading to the departure of numerous highly skilled public servants. Some of those public servants had to seek legal justice through an employment lawyer to exit their workplace environment due to misunderstandings and the pressure of having to clear up those misunderstandings.
Could I ask you to please pray for public servants?
As a Baptist movement, could we come together collectively and individually in prayer for our country, its leaders, and its servants?
Times are tough for everyone, but a number of public servants who were let go or resigned during the pandemic are still navigating the challenges of finding suitable employment amidst the current economic crisis. I want to challenge us, as part of the body of Christ, to consider and re-center our focus and fully understand the importance of showing sympathy, empathy, and care for those who have worked hard and are impacted.
Romans 13:1-7 reminds us of the importance of respecting and submitting ourselves to the laws and authority of the land. It is a biblical principle to engage in civic responsibilities with reverence for authority, even as we seek divine guidance.
Romans 13.1 reads, “Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God.”
Prayer points for public servants
· For people to have compassion and sympathy in their communication and interactions with public servants.
· For people to have respect for diverse perspectives.
· For God to raise up mature Christian leaders in the public service.
· For peace and clarity of mind for those with mental health issues.
· For patience and faith for those looking for work.
Image credit: @gajus-images from canva.com
[1]. “Raraunga Ohumahi – Ta te Rāngai Tūmatanui Hanga: Workforce Data – Public Sector Composition,” Te Kawa Mataaho Public Service Commission, https://www.publicservice.govt.nz/research-and-data/workforce-data-public-sector-composition;
[2] The Department of Internal Affairs also experienced major job cuts, but most were from water reform winding up.
