“Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.” (Hebrews 4:16 NIV)
When you ask employees about the “open door” policy that is in their handbook, they will acknowledge that it is in the employee handbook, that it’s written in the plethora of information received at their new employee orientation, and they will even go as far to let you know that this policy, this philosophy, it is even posted on the walls, right next to a posting that says, “Employees are our most valuable asset.” They know what it says and will comment about it sounds positive in writing and how it explicitly encourages employees to use the open door. But continuing with their response, in many instances, dare I say too many instances, thee employee will go on to add a very revealing statement: “It sounds good, but the door is nor really open.”
Some employees tell me about times when they were sent back to work it out with the one who they are complaining about. That causes them to say, “What happened to the open door?” Morale is negatively impacted. And for the record, note that a lowered morale will bring about lowered production
Other employees are told that they are free to add a note to file, but the resolution of their issue is not reviewed, and regretfully never resolved. While told they could approach any member of management, the reality is that they are redirected to work their way up the chain of command. Silently they pose the question, “What happened to the open door?” Thank God for companies that take their open door policy seriously. Bless the companies where there is no fear of retaliation among those who have a complaint and see the benefit of making the open door truly available to their employees.
Well, (And you know you are about to be told something when you hear “well” don’t you?), well, thank God that we as believers have an open door. Thank God that we can go to the Lord in prayer and tell Him all about our struggles! Praise the Lord that He allows us as believers to boldly approach the throne of grace and mercy! Thank God because we can cry out to Him and see that the Scripture is true: Thank God that when we use the open door to His throne, He will correct us if we need it, create more patience if we required in our development, or come to our rescue to fix our situation. And He will remind us of the word that reads “God is a very present help in times of trouble.” God may teach us the idiom is inarguably true, “He may not come when we want Him too, but He is always right on time.” Or perhaps He will let us know that He is teaching us how to wait on the Lord, and in the meantime, be of good courage and also to do good. But make no mistake my friend, we have an open door…really!
Therefore, whatever you are going through, whatever is the nature of your issue, or when you need clarification on what is in our policy manual, called “The Bible,” we can call on the Lord and He will answer us for sure. Hence, I urge you to use the open door that is an “open door… really!” Go to God in prayer my friend! Our open door is not a procedure, it is a privilege. It is not a trendy thing; it is a truth. Haven’t you heard the song, “I can go to God in prayer?” Listen to the words sang by Albertina Walker before you go forward and enjoy your Saturday! Don’t forget service tomorrow! Be blessed!
Makes no difference what the problem (I can go to God in prayer)
Yes, I have this blessed assurance (I can go to God in prayer)
He will take my gloom and sorrow (turn it into light)
He will comfort, strengthen and keep me (I can go to God in prayer)
I can call Him (I can call Him)
When I need Him (When I need Him)
Father (our Father)
Up in heaven (up in heaven)
I can go (I can go to)
God in prayer (God in prayer)
I can go to God in prayer
Sometimes my burdens, they get so heavy (I can go to God in prayer)
I have found one who is so faithful (I can go to God in prayer)
He will take my gloom and sadness (turn it into light)
He will never ever forsake me, Lord (I can go to God in prayer)
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28 NIV)
Mark L. King