Mutual Reasonableness. Colossians 3:22-23. The strongest motivation to serve others is the hope that, in the future, our Lord will reward what has been done “unto Him.” Being faithful in any tasks we are given, as long as they are done to God's glory and to bless others, will result in a reward that lasts forever. This includes not only Bible reading, study, prayer, and evangelism but also any work that honors our Lord Jesus Christ.
Serving others without pay or a fair compensation can lead to deep resentment if we allow it. The roles assigned to us may seem unfair, but a servant who genuinely serves the Lord finds contentment that extends to their master when they both share their lives as Christians. Labor meant to seek recognition doesn't fool anyone; evidence of their effort is visible in their work and achievements. When the day’s work is over, you’re not just accountable to the boss— the Lord also sees and knows every responsibility you neglect, every unnecessary break you take, and your attitude toward those you serve.
What we do for the Lord wholeheartedly and sincerely, without partiality, is not labor in vain. Work is a blessing both to those who work and to those who benefit from their labor. It is likely that Onesimus was with Epaphroditus when this letter and the personal one titled “Philemon” were delivered to Philemon at Colosse. “Colossians” was written to the entire church that met in his home and provided these principles for serving (even as slaves) and being served. Whether to servants or slaves, there was to be no partiality shown in the church, nor should there be any reason to pity some because they were slaves.
The servants mentioned in the book of Colossians were probably unpaid slaves, but the principles are the same for employers and workers. The instruction to obey their masters comes from God. The scriptures do not endorse slavery but address issues common in that society. When a person fears the Lord and loves Him, He gives them the strength to go beyond just pretending to work to truly working with a sincere heart for the Lord's sake.
The purpose of the church is to spread the Gospel, not to change laws through aggressive social action or to become involved in politics. A Christian servant owed obedience to his master in Bible times, and today, a servant owes that respect to his employer. Our character is shown by how we work and lead others. The ultimate reward comes from the Lord, who is the true Master. Wrongdoings against a master or employer will be righted by appropriate recompense, regardless of who they are, because God shows no partiality.
Keywords in this area of serving and being served include: “obey in everything,” “not with eye service,” “singleness of heart,” “fearing the Lord,” “as serving the Lord,” “from the Lord,” “serving the Lord Christ,” and no “partiality.” All of these remind us of the responsibility to avoid laziness and negligence in all we do because a day is coming when we will stand before the Lord at the judgment seat of Christ and give an account of ourselves to God. What we sow, we will also reap.
True service isn't just about what we can see and observe because some tasks take much longer to finish than others. The life principle we must follow in serving others is to serve people with our heart, just as we do our heavenly Father. We can't do everything, but when we understand our responsibilities and our tasks match our abilities, we work according to the Lord and not just for people. Labor and work done with genuine heart is a blessing to everyone involved when properly performed. When we serve people sincerely, we are serving the Lord. The earthly master will be pleased with the work we do. Those blessed by your efforts will trust your word, and you'll find personal satisfaction when the task is complete.
When God's peace rules in our hearts and His word teaches us about His authority and moves us to serve Him as to the Lord, our lives will align with His plans. God will provide us with the wisdom we need for teaching, admonishing, giving thanks, and praising Him for allowing us to live and serve so that we can honor Him.