Christian Work Ethic
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Servants, respectfully obey your earthly masters but always with an eye to obeying the real master, Christ. Don't just do what you have to do to get by, but work heartily, as Christ's servants doing what God wants you to do. And work with a smile on your face, always keeping in mind that no matter who happens to be giving the orders, you're really serving God. Good work will get you good pay from the Master, regardless of whether you are slave or free. (Ephesians 6:5 The Message)
Guide slaves into being loyal workers, a bonus to their masters - no back talk, no petty thievery. Then their good character will shine through their actions, adding luster to the teaching of our Savior God.” (Titus 2:9 The Message)
My friend, Debbie, was hired to help a manager apparently short on interpersonal skills rebuild her company’s staff. Debbie had met an outgoing thirty-something at her church in need of a job who seemed perfect for one of the positions. The job was offered and gratefully accepted, but things went down hill from there. The young woman was rarely on time and spent much of her workday contacting her social network and getting her friends together. Debbie’s admonitions fell on deaf ears. The manager soon confronted Debbie with this question: “Do all Christians have no work ethic?”
Often, people who were servants in Paul’s day were working off debts they or their family incurred but could not pay. Nonetheless, the apostle Paul instructs servants to honor Christ by doing their very best for their masters, instead of just doing barely enough to get by. Should the same principle apply any less for employees today?
“Servants, do what you're told by your earthly masters. And don't just do the minimum that will get you by. Do your best. Work from the heart for your real Master, for God, confident that you'll get paid in full when you come into your inheritance. Keep in mind always that the ultimate Master you're serving is Christ. The sullen servant who does shoddy work will be held responsible. Being a follower of Jesus doesn't cover up bad work.” (Colossians 3:22 The Message)
The employment contract I signed the first day on my job means that eight hours of my time each day are being paid for by my company in exchange for doing the job they hired me to do. As a Christian, I strive to be one of the hardest workers, the most faithful employees, with the best attitude, willing to help out wherever needed, always striving to do my very best. Why? Because they know I’m a Christian, and everything I do is a witness to those around me – especially on the tough days.
Remember, “…the ultimate Master you’re serving is Christ.” That doesn’t mean I spend my work hours preaching to my co-workers. My actions speak much louder than words ever could. It means I choose to do the right thing even when no one is watching – because Jesus sees, and He rewards faithfulness.
Heavenly Father, help us to serve our employers, doing more than what is expected, willingly and with a smile on our faces. And in doing so, to honor You. May our character shine through and bring glory to You. In Jesus’ name, Amen
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