What does the Lord require of a servant? Similarly, how does one go through the process of becoming someone whose service the Lord would care to use? If you have ever wondered about these questions, you are not alone. The truth is that most, if not all, believers grapple with questions of whether or not their work is pleasing to God. Though the process may seem difficult at times, be assured that the benefits of service to the Lord outweigh the troubles you are to face in life as you walk with Him.
“5 Servants, be obedient to them that are your masters according to the flesh, with fear and trembling, in singleness of your heart, as unto Christ; 6 Not with eyeservice, as menpleasers; but as the servants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart; 7 With good will doing service, as to the Lord, and not to men: 8 Knowing that whatsoever good thing any man doeth, the same shall he receive of the Lord, whether he be bond or free. And, ye masters, do the same things unto them, forbearing threatening: knowing that your Master also is in heaven; neither is there respect of persons with him.” (Ephesians 6:5-9, KJV)
“13 For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure.” (Philippians 2:13, KJV)
Servant hood is sometimes thought of as a degrading profession. Those who believe this to be true may attach the term ‘servant’ to those poor souls who cater to every whim of highly sophisticated employers who pay low wages. Well friends, we each have an opportunity to show the world what true servant hood is all about.
One who serves at the pleasure of the Lord takes care of business. Period. He or she is one who displays integrity and morality in ways that inspire others to perform at their best. If you are a person of authority in the workplace, I encourage you to exercise your authority in ways that would be pleasing to the Lord. Continue to ask God for His wisdom as you motivate others to do what must be done.
God honors those who serve at His pleasure. Whatever your job is, imagine your service as being directly for God. Allow your light to shine by the way you carry out your duties. Do not try to get out of doing the tough jobs. Instead, embrace them with a sense of purpose and dedicate yourself to doing the tough tasks very well. And contrary to popular belief, it is perfectly alright to smile on the job! Just saying…
Okay, here is a word of caution: if you are trying what I suggested above for the first time, the people on your job may look at you strangely for a little while. That’s okay because you will soon help them understand the light of the Lord shining through you. If asked why the sudden change, just smile and say “I serve at the pleasure of the Lord”. Then be ready to explain. Be well!
Author, speaker, musician DEREK E. EURALES, Jr., loves to share his faith, motivation, and music. His book, Principles of Christian Living, has become a “must read” for believers of all ages. To order your copy, click here.