Devotional: Good Work-Serving Christ in Our Work and Leadership
“Serve wholeheartedly, as if you were serving the Lord, not people, because you know that the Lord will reward each one for whatever good they do, whether they are slave or free.”
— Ephesians 6:7–8 (NIV)
Work often feels like it’s about deadlines, bosses, or paychecks. But Paul reminds us that our true audience is God. Whether you’re a student in the classroom, an employee at the office, or a manager leading a team, your daily labor has dignity because it is service to Christ.
Paul’s words were radical in his day. He spoke to both slaves and masters, reminding them that they shared the same Master in heaven. In doing so, he elevated the dignity of every worker and reshaped the way leaders were to view their responsibility. His message was clear: all work matters to God, and all people are called to honor Him through it.
For workers, this means serving with sincerity and integrity—not just when someone is watching, but as if every task is an offering to the Lord. Even in the ordinary or unnoticed moments, God sees, and He is pleased when our work reflects faithfulness. For leaders, it means using authority with humility, fairness, and care—leading as Christ leads, not with pride or fear, but with servant-hearted love.
This perspective frees us from overwork, because our worth is not tied to performance, and it keeps us from underwork, because God is always our audience. Instead of chasing approval from bosses, coworkers, or even ourselves, we rest in the approval already secured for us in Christ. That approval changes how we approach every responsibility.
When you embrace that reality, even the smallest task becomes sacred. Making a meal for your family, leading a team meeting, or studying for a test are no longer just routine duties—they become ways to love your neighbor and glorify God. Work is not just something we get through; it’s one of the places God shows up in our lives.
Prayer
Father, thank You for giving dignity and purpose to our work. Help us remember that You are our ultimate audience. Teach us to serve wholeheartedly, with integrity and joy, and to lead with humility and care. Free us from the chase for human approval and remind us that in Christ, we are already loved, accepted, and approved. May our daily work honor You and bless those around us. Amen.
Discussion Questions
How would your perspective on your job or daily responsibilities change if you viewed God as your ultimate audience?
In what ways can you “work like an owner” in your current role, even if you’re not in leadership?
If you lead others, what would it look like to lead as Christ leads—with humility, fairness, and care?
Dig Deeper
Listen: Our Work and Our Character – Timothy Keller [Sermon]
Every role—whether working or leading—is an opportunity to serve Christ and love our neighbors. When you walk into your classroom, office, or job site this week, remember: your work matters because you belong to Him.
