Colossians 3:23 is easier said than done isn’t it?
Sadly, this verse has been relegated to the “trite sayings of the Bible.”
But what if we read it in context?
Slaves, obey your earthly masters in everything you do. Try to please them all the time, not just when they are watching you. Serve them sincerely because of your reverent fear of the Lord. Work willingly at whatever you do, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people. Remember that the Lord will give you an inheritance as your reward, and that the Master you are serving is Christ. But if you do what is wrong, you will be paid back for the wrong you have done. For God has no favorites. (Colossians 3:22-25)
Paul was originally talking to slaves. People who were property. Owned. Either by choice or other means. They didn’t get to choose who their master was or the work they did. But they did get to choose Who they ultimately severed and the quality of their work.
When we do our jobs, tasks, projects, chores, etc. as an act of worship to God rather than a J.O.B. our attitude changes.
The drudgery lifts.
The boredom dissipates.
When we determine to shift our focus from ourselves to God, His glory, and furthering His Kingdom here on Earth, we allow His Spirit to move, live, and breathe through us. This liberates change in our perception about our reality.
Instead of harboring resentment toward our bosses and/or the demands, challenges, and monotony of our jobs; we’re able to understand these troubles are a cost of discipleship and an avenue God is using to refine our character and integrity.
Then we’re empowered to
- Silence our complaining
- Be Light in the darkness
- Change the culture of where we work
- Treat those around us with respect, dignity, and value
- Demonstrate our faith to those we work with
- Find pleasure and joy in our work…and maybe even excitement
This is true even if you work in a toxic environment. Faithfully serve God while He has you there—even if you’re praying for an opportunity to move elsewhere. You have no idea what seeds you’re planting. Whose faith you’re encouraging. Or how God is refining you. Fact is, you may never know this side of Heaven, and that’s ok.
Remember that the Lord will give you an inheritance as your reward, and that the Master you are serving is Christ.
Prayer
Jesus, give me what I need today to shift my focus to serving You rather than pleasing others. Please accept my work as an act of worship. Give me your attitude and courage as I face my day. I confess neither have been great. Forgive my resentments and selfish behavior…(you finish from here)
Blessings~
Cheyenne