WORSHIP GOD THROUGH YOUR WORK (PART 2)

Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving. (Colossians 3:23-24)

Paul teaches Christians an important truth here. The Lord is our Employer; the one we ultimately work for; the one we must aim to please. This is easy to forget when dealing with employers, supervisors, commanding officers and coworkers. We can easily grow frustrated and even bitter about circumstances at work and be tempted with a less-than-Christian attitude towards our work habits. Feeling unappreciated, unjustly treated or overly scrutinized can lead to feeling entitled to blow off our responsibilities in a number of ways. 

Let me put a finer point on it. Perhaps you have said to yourself...

What's the point of working hard when no one notices? Not even the boss? 

My boss is corrupt and treats us all horribly. Why should I make him look good? 

Why should I care about doing the job right when no one else cares?

Before going into ministry, I worked in a number of jobs and had these thoughts running through my head, and even gave in at times. This is why Paul's instructions are so important for us to remember always. Whether you are a soldier, a CEO or salesman, you are serving the Lord. You have one Boss. You might have earthly bosses who are impossible to please, or they may even be unjust and unfair in their dealings with their employees and with their clients. But ultimately the one you are to please is Jesus, so whatever your work may be, "work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men..." I remember hearing Tony Evans preach on these verses on the radio years ago. He said if the boss is giving you a hard time, "...change who you're working for." Not only is the Lord a better boss, he also promises his employees greater benefits.

Paul says you will receive an inheritance. This inheritance is not your "paycheck" but rather is the promise of future grace that energizes our service to Jesus. Faithfully doing our jobs is our worshipful response to the promised inheritance every believer already has by faith in Jesus. It cannot be taken away; nor can it expire because it is kept safe in heaven by God himself. (1 Peter 1:4) 

Remember, it is the Lord Christ you are serving ultimately. He's got your back! Worship him through your work!