DILIGENCE
Richard Harris
Today’s Scripture: “Bondservants, obey in everything those who are your earthly masters, not by way of eye-service, as people-pleasers, but with sincerity of heart, fearing the Lord.” Colossians 3:22, ESV
Theme: Work diligently in your occupation as if you are working directly for God, because you are.
AUTHENTIC DESIRE
Today’s Scripture from Paul’s letter to the Christian church in Colossae was meant to keep some of the new Christian church members from migrating towards disturbing, false teachings. Paul told them that God can orchestrate His purposes even through the things we are forced to do. The example of the bondservant can encourage us to diligently work and serve out of respect for the Lord’s authority. First century instructions to bondservants can be applied to today’s employers and employees. God’s perfect justice is coming to all, regardless of social standing. Yet even though we don’t always see that justice in the present, we are called to remain diligent and faithful.
When we are diligent, we can find satisfaction in performing God’s work. Good servants of the Lord act without having to be constantly told what to do. They remain focused on the important things. Learning to be diligent teaches us to pray for strength and guidance, especially when we don’t feel like doing it anymore.
WHO DO YOU SERVE
Singer Bob Dylan had a song out in the 80’s called “Gotta Serve Somebody.” The lyrics are pertinent to Paul’s advice in Scripture. Dylan makes the point that people of all circumstances and standing are here to serve:
"But you're gonna have to serve somebody (serve somebody)
Yes indeed, you're gonna have to serve somebody (serve somebody)
Well, it may be the Devil or it may be the Lord
But you're gonna have to serve somebody."
Make it Personal: Here on Earth, we all serve somebody: parents, teachers, bosses. Yet everything comes down to a service to Him. Always do your best work. Feel the freedom of diligence as you serve.
Pray: Lord, as we work through our earthly obligations, we fully understand that we are ultimately working directly for You. With sincerity of heart, we obey the requirements of all that You oversee so we may fulfill our servitude with diligence. We pray for guidance and strength, Lord, as we labor for the beneficial outcomes that fulfill all needs properly. We do all this Lord, in the name of Your Son, our Savior, Jesus Christ. Amen.
Read: Genesis 2:15; Luke 17:7-10; Romans 8:28; Ephesians 6:5-9
Weekly Memory Verse: “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