Our Motivation for Serving

February 02, 2018

Our Motivation for Serving

Colossians 3:22-25

Oftentimes we think serving the Lord is limited to something done in the church—such as working in the nursery, teaching Sunday school, or singing in the choir. But God’s view of service encompasses everything we do, wherever we are. No matter who is the object of our service, we are ultimately serving the Lord.

Today’s passage is addressed to slaves, but the principle it describes can also be applied to employees—as well as to every person and situation in our life. Knowing that we serve Christ will …

Affect the quality of our work. Although we may be tempted to give an employer half-hearted service and mediocre effort, none of us would do that to Christ. If we’ll keep Him foremost in our thoughts, we will become His faithful ambassadors by doing our best for those we serve.

Guard our attitude. Regardless of the way others treat us or the demands they make of us, working “heartily, as for the Lord” (Col. 3:23) melts away bitterness and purifies our motives. Then our goal will be to please Christ in all we do.

Prevent discouragement. If we’re seeking approval for our efforts, we’re going to be consistently disappointed when it doesn’t come. But since the Lord never overlooks our service, we can persevere, knowing He’s the one who will someday reward us.

When it comes to work, commitment to Christ must be our motivation rather than feelings. If we ask God to empower our efforts and watch over our attitude, grumbling will turn to joy, and our service will be pleasing to Him.

Bible in One Year: Leviticus 11-13