Bring Meaning to Work

Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men. – Colossians 3:23

As he explained the Colossians 3 passage, a pastor once said, “People are problems for all of us.” The marriage relationship, child/parent relationship, and the employer/employee relationship can have conflicts for various reasons. However, the Lord has given guidance for each one in His Word. 

The apostle Paul referred to masters and slaves, but you can insert employer and employee to understand the relationship as it should be. The Christian employer and employee should be conscientious and industrious in their work habits. “Whatever you do, work heartily as for the Lord” (Colossians 3:23). Addressing the motives people have for working, Dr. Lloyd J. Ogilvie wrote, “The fact is that we were never meant to find meaning in our work, but rather bring meaning to our work. When Christ is our meaning we can work creatively to praise Him.” 

In all situations, be faithful to God. Whether you are the employer or employee, do your best. Pray for those with whom you work. If you are a stay-at-home mom, pray that God would give you the strength to do all He has called you to do. “Work heartily as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward” (vv. 23-24). Seek to please the Lord whether someone is watching you or not. Though no one else may see, the Lord does, and, as John MacArthur says, “He will pay you back with grace and generosity.” 

Ask the Lord to show you whether or not you are doing your best in your position. Pray for those around you and that your Christian testimony leads them to Christ. Pray for the relationships that exist between the nation’s governing officials and the aides who serve them.