Getting the Most Out of Work

Colossians 3:22-24  

22 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.

23 Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men,

24 since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.

Love what you do, and you will not work a day in your life,” goes the modern saying. But we don’t always get to do what we like or labor alongside easy-going people. Any job—even a well-loved one—has low points and tasks that feel like drudgery. Our attitude, then, cannot be based upon the work itself or our feelings; rather, it must reflect our position as God’s children. We would be far wiser to adopt a new maxim: Work for the Lord you love, and you will be fulfilled every day of your life.”

We get the most out of our work when we view ourselves as servants. Modern culture teaches us to seek power and respect for self instead of toiling diligently for those who are in authority over us. But God’s Word preaches a different principle: “Slaves, in all things obey those who are your masters on earth” (Colossians 3:22). Biblical obedience isn’t merely an outward show with inward grumbling and resentment, but a true commitment to the welfare of the employer. (Paul used the word “slaves” because the ancient practice of human ownership was common at the time. Though times have changed, the godly principle still applies.)

God’s children are called to be His servants. Since we spend significant amounts of time at a job, much of our service will be done there. As employees, we are to apply the biblical principles of obedience and sacrifice, because whoever our human boss may be, God is the ultimate authority overseeing our actions. He wants to see us practicing righteousness at work.