"Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ." Colossians 3:23-24 ESV
Looking back over 30 plus years of working in the corporate world, I realize how much recognition is part of that environment. There are performance reviews where your manager, and sometimes peers, evaluate your work. Your rating score usually affects your salary increase. Bonuses and other monetary incentives are also based on subjective evaluations of how well objectives are met. Whether as a waitperson receive a tip for a job well done or a bonus for finishing the construction of a house early, the focus of our much of our working careers is one of recognition and reward.
In the verse today, we are introduced to a paradigm shift, a new way of thinking. We are to do our jobs well and with enthusiasm, but instead of doing in for the recognition and man we do it for God. While working in the world we have an opportunity to serve Christ. How we conduct ourselves at work, should serve as a witness to the Holy Spirit at work within us. Our coworkers should be able to see a difference in us. While others around us may be focused solely on the recognition and reward of man, we are putting out trust in God to provide. We are assured God cares for us and will meet our every need (Matthew 6:31-32), “Therefore do not be anxious, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For the Gentiles seek after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them all.” We are also assured of receiving a greater inheritance as our reward in serving God.
God, we give you thanks for work. In work, we are allowed to use the gifts and talents you have blessed us with. Help us as we go about our daily jobs to do it with joy and use it as an opportunity to serve you. We are thankful for the future promise of eternal reward. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
