9. Teach slaves to be subject to their masters in everything, to try to please them, not to talk back to them, 10. 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, I have added Paul’s instructions to Titus on this same theme regarding principles that should be applied to our 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 by showing respect to those in authority over you.
2). Handle grievances in a proper and truthful manner.
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. We need to obey our employers for they are paying our salaries and are responsible for our supervision, but before you use appropriate grievance procedures let me also ask you to be in prayer about it. God may have a greater plan than you getting your rights or revenge or vindication
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. Work hard and, if something happens that is beyond your control, you have a good conscience and can hold your head up high. Serve God in the spite of injustice and ridicule because then you are promised a heavenly reward.
God does know if our suffering is unjust and 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 worker for an honest day’s work for your wages. I feel proud when I hear compliments about people’s jobs from their employers or fellow employees.
Sometimes I am embarrassed to listen to some reports of people who have cheated others, or taken things from others, or almost have to be fired for poor working habits. What type of reputation do you have at work? Your witness will follow you. There will be many opportunities to cheat, slack off, crab and complain about your job, but instead give all of that to God and do your best.
Application: How much money you get should not make a single bit a difference regarding your work performance, if you are working as unto the Lord. Whatever you do, do your best on your job, not for your employer’s sake, or for money's sake, but for the Lord.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, let these truths here be lived out in my life for anyone who is authority over me.
