Colossians 3:22-23
“Slaves, obey your earthly masters in everything; and do it, not only when their eye is on you and to win their favor, but with sincerity of heart and reverence for the Lord. Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men.”
It seems I can still hear our kids in play as one would remark to the other, “You’re not the boss of me!” I don’t know that anyone appreciates being bossed around, so it is no wonder that resentment often arises on the job. We do not like someone telling us what to do—even when they are our supervisor. Who is your boss?
Today’s Scripture convicted me many years ago. I was working for a man who seemed to view himself to be a Viking warrior. He was the topic of conversation in the break room and at any other time a group of us gathered together. Our comments were not at all respectful of his position.
As the Lord convicted me, I went to his office and asked for his forgiveness for the manner I had behaved toward him. I confessed that I had made derogatory comments about him and was truly sorry. I asked for his forgiveness and made a pledge to speak to him directly if I disagreed with his decisions.
What I did not know was that he was aware of the things being spoken behind his back. The other thing I did not know was that he had just been authorized to promote someone to the position of deputy director. He chose me ahead of others who had more seniority, in part because I was someone he could trust.
Today’s Scripture is very clear about how we are to behave in the workplace. If Paul is saying how slaves are to respond to their masters, how much more does it apply to employees. He says “in everything” and even when the boss is not around. Not to get a promotion, but doing it as unto the Lord. How do you stack up?
Blessings dear hearts. Draw near to God today, trust Him completely and be a blessing!
– – – Pastor Cecil