What does "as to the Lord" imply about our work ethic? Ephesians 6:7 Ground Zero “Serve with good will, as to the Lord and not to men.” What “as to the Lord” Pushes Into Our Work Ethic • Primary audience shift: every task is ultimately placed before Christ, not a human boss. • Work becomes worship—an act of devotion offered to the One who redeemed us. • Motivation is no longer external recognition but internal reverence for the Lord. Attitude: Wholehearted and Joyful • Colossians 3:23-24—“Whatever you do, work at it with your whole being, for the Lord…” • No grudging compliance; the heart overflows with gratitude that Christ accepts our labor. • Philippians 2:14—working “without complaining or arguing” safeguards the witness of the gospel. Effort: Diligent and Excellent • Proverbs 22:29—skillful, diligent workers “stand before kings,” showing that excellence honors God. • 1 Corinthians 10:31—“whatever you do, do it all to the glory of God.” Shoddy work misrepresents Him. • The ant’s example (Proverbs 6:6-8) warns against laziness; “as to the Lord” calls for initiative even when unseen. Integrity: Consistent and Honest • Luke 16:10—faithfulness in “very little” marks one as trustworthy in much; God sees both. • Colossians 3:22—rejects “eye-service” and people-pleasing, rooting honesty in fear of the Lord. • No cutting corners, falsifying reports, or compromising truths; Christ’s name is on the line. Relationships: Serving People for Jesus’ Sake • Galatians 5:13—freedom expressed through service; coworkers experience Christ’s love through our help. • Matthew 20:28—Jesus “did not come to be served, but to serve.” Imitating Him reshapes office dynamics. • Even difficult supervisors are respected because honoring them reflects submission to Christ (1 Peter 2:18-19). Endurance: Persevering Under Pressure • Hebrews 12:2—fixing eyes on Jesus fuels endurance amid monotonous or hostile environments. • James 1:12—steadfastness under trial receives “the crown of life.” Eternity vindicates quiet faithfulness. Reward: Accountability and Blessing • Ephesians 6:8—“knowing that each one, whatever good he does, will receive back from the Lord.” • Matthew 25:23—“Well done, good and faithful servant.” Earthly paychecks fade; Christ’s commendation endures. Practical Monday-Morning Applications • Begin each day by verbally dedicating tasks to Christ. • List one way to add excellence or creativity that reflects His worth. • Choose integrity checkpoints—expenses, time sheets, online habits. • Look for a coworker to serve anonymously, mirroring Christ’s humility. • End the workday reviewing decisions before the Lord, thanking Him for grace and noting areas to grow. Christ-centered labor transforms the ordinary into sacred service, proving that every desk, field, or factory floor can become an altar “as to the Lord.” |
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