Good morning,
When Saul, the hater of believers in Christ, received Christ, his life was completely changed, including his name to Paul. Everywhere he went he was telling them about Jesus Christ.
Paul encourages the Colossians’ to follow Christ. Paul tells them to allow the word of God to dwell in them, whatever they do, do it heartily to the Lord, pray, and allow their speech be seasoned with salt.
We will look at each of these areas during this week’s devotions.
Whatsoever ye do… (Colossians 3:23-25)
“And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men; 24 Knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ.25 But he that doeth wrong shall receive for the wrong which he hath done: and there is no respect of persons.”
In context, Paul is writing to servants. He tells them to serve their masters as if they were serving God.
We are the servants of Christ. We are also servants to others. Maybe an employer or someone who has the rule over us.
Sometimes the people we serve do not know Jesus as personal Lord and Savior. Their view of life is worldly and corrupt. They make fun of or curse the Lord Jesus Christ.
How should we respond?
“…whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord…” We are not to rebel, cause dissension, be bitter, or complain. We should obey God’s word, exemplify the person of Jesus Christ, and love our master. Then God is glorified and we may have opportunity to tell the person about salvation in Jesus Christ.
Romans 13:1-7 explains Colossians 3:23-25.
“Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God.2 Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation.3 For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power? do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise of the same:4 For he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil. 5 Wherefore ye must needs be subject, not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake.6 For for this cause pay ye tribute also: for they are God’s ministers, attending continually upon this very thing.7 Render therefore to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honor to whom honor.”
This should change our approach to being a servant. Whomever we serve should be served as if they were the Lord Jesus Christ.
Are we willing to take God’s judgement for failing to serve others properly? Think about employers, ministers, our President (previous and present), state and local officials, and Jesus Himself.
Service=Obedience
Ponder God’s word and then act upon God’s truth.
Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001
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