To this you were called because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in his step.
Titus 2:9-10 Teach slaves to be subject to their masters in everything, to try to please them, not to talk back to them, and not to steal from them, but to show that they can be fully trusted, so that in every way they will make the teaching about God our Savior attractive.
Since Peter was talking about slavery, and I used some of the principles that could be applied to our working situation yesterday, I have turned to Titus 2:9-10 that points more specifically to actions in the workplace.
1) We are to be submissive and respectful to our employers.
Peter and Paul are calling for a submissive attitude that is even willing to take suffering as an offering unto God. Show respect to those in authority over you. The attitude of loving our enemies and doing good to those who despitefully use us are hard for us to understand when we live in a society that protects human rights.
2) Handle grievances in a proper and truthful manner.
I believe we can use the avenues our laws provide for appeal, just like Paul as a citizen of Rome used his right of citizenship for appeal in the courts of Israel and was then sent to the courts of Rome. The point is in all matters be respectful. Our bosses may not always be right, but they are our bosses. We might have better ideas, but that needs to be said in respectful and kind ways. We need to obey our employers.
3) When there are injustices over which you can do nothing, turn it over to God.
Be sure that you do what is right, not seeking revenge. . God may have a greater plan than you getting your rights or revenge or vindication. Serve God in the spite of injustices and ridicule, because then you are promised a heavenly reward.
There are times when we are fully in the right, but for God’s sake of souls or salvation we will suffer for their spiritual good and our future blessing. God does know if our suffering is unjust. He will reward. Turning our rights over to Him to avenge is true faith.
4) Do your best as you desire to be a witness for Jesus in being honest, helpful, friendly, kind and a good working for an honest day’s work for your wages.
Application: What type of reputation do you have at work? Whatever you do, do your best on your job, not for your employer’s sake or for money’s sake, but for the Lord’s sake. Give all that to God and do your best.
What can happen is co-workers will get on your case for working so hard making them look bad. Other times an employer may see the good work and push you for more. What do you do in those situations? DO YOUR BEST. How much money you get should not make a bit of difference regarding your work performance, if you are working as unto the Lord.
Prayer: Lord, teach me to submit to you in all circumstances. When I feel I am unfairly treated by anyone, move me to always pray for Your will in the situation.
