May 27, 2025

FOR AN AUDIENCE OF ONE

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE

“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. Masters, be just and fair to your slaves. Remember that you also have a Master—in heaven.”

Colossians 3:22–25, 4:1 NLT

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TODAY’S THOUGHT

After addressing the home, Paul turns his attention to relationships in the workplace. In his time, slavery was a widespread institution—but it was very different from the brutal and racially motivated slavery we often associate with more recent history. In the Roman world, many slaves were educated professionals and household managers, and some even owned property or were paid for their work.

While Paul speaks directly to slaves and masters, the principles he teaches can absolutely be applied to modern-day relationships between employees and employers.

1. Employees: Work as for the Lord

Paul encourages workers to serve with sincerity, integrity, and diligence—not only when someone is watching, but at all times. Why? Because the ultimate authority we answer to is not our boss, but Jesus Christ.

As followers of Christ, our jobs become more than just a means to a paycheck. They become platforms for worship and witness. Paul says, “Work willingly at whatever you do, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people.” That perspective transforms how we work, how we speak, and how we carry ourselves in the workplace.

Before entering full-time ministry, I had various jobs. I made it my goal to show up early, stay late, and make my boss successful. I saw each job as a chance to learn and grow—and to be a testimony for Christ. I didn’t just work to earn money; I worked to add value, to represent Jesus well, and to honor God.

Too often, our witness is weakened—not by what we say—but by how we work. A lazy, negative, or untrustworthy employee can do damage to the name of Christ. But a reliable, joyful, and hard-working employee can open doors for the Gospel.

2. Employers: Lead with Justice and Fairness

Paul also speaks to those in authority. He says, “Masters, be just and fair to your slaves. Remember that you also have a Master—in heaven.” For employers and leaders, this is a powerful reminder: How you treat others reflects how you understand God’s authority over your life.

Leadership is not a license for control; it’s a responsibility for care. Good bosses lead with fairness, honesty, and respect. When Christ is the center of your leadership, you’ll treat your employees with the same grace and dignity God extends to you.

Your character as a boss speaks louder than your title. Many testimonies have been undermined by harsh, unfair leadership. But when we lead like Jesus, we inspire trust, loyalty, and transformation.

The Bottom Line: Let Christ Shine at Work

Whether you’re an employee or an employer, your role is sacred. Your job is a place to reflect Christ—not just through your words, but through your work ethic, your attitude, your integrity, and your leadership.

Work like Jesus is your boss. Lead like Jesus is your example.

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TODAY’S PRAYER

Holy Spirit, help me reflect Christ in my workplace. Whether I’m under authority or in a position of authority, let my actions speak of Your presence in my life. Help me to work with excellence and lead with grace so that Jesus is seen in all I do. Amen.

“Scroll down to share what you feel God is saying based on today’s reading.”