For today, tomorrow and Monday, I feel led to do a three-part devotion with the series title being, “It is All Relative.” Today’s devotion is:
It Depends on God
You know how you can talk to some people about absolutely anything, because they are a best friend? You can pick on them or tell them when they are right or wrong?And with others, are you not as free because you are not as close? That’s the subject of our next three devotions. How we act depends on who we are relating to. God is no exception to this.
As Christians, we should treat God as our Master because, well, He is God! We are His bondservants. As defined in Merriam Webster’s dictionary a bondservant is “one bound to service without wages.” also : SLAVE Paul’s letter to the Colossians describes how bondservants should relate to their masters:
Slaves, obey your earthly masters in everything; and do it, not only when their eye is on you and to curry their favor, but with sincerity of heart and reverence for the Lord.” Colossians 3:22
Paul was telling bondservants to obey their masters, not just because they are owned, but because a sincere heart shows respect to God. The way we behave is a reflection of how we feel about God. He explains in verse 23 that ALL we do needs to be as if we are doing it for the Lord.
Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving. Colossians 3:23-24
Everything we do is relative. All of our actions need to point to our love and respect for God. That seems like a simple point, but it has huge implications; it changes everything!
When we work a job, Paul’s advice suggests we do it as if God was our boss. When we cook a meal for our family, we are to do it as if God was there. It means we think before we speak. What we say, think, do, feel, etc., depends on our love for God. Our actions mirror His patience and love. It ALL depends on God.
Dear Father,
Thank you for inspiring Paul to write this message that is so vitally important to our spiritual lives. In order that we shine the light of your love, we need to act it out in all we do. You are our master and we want to obey You always. Please help us focus on servanthood as we enter the Christmas season. Remind us, with the Holy Spirit’s nudging , that our actions tell others who we depend on for our joy and strength. May ALL we do honor You. We love You! Amen
GROWwork:
When we let our actions depend on God’s approval, what things may change?
As for me, I will be more patient and respectful of others. With the Lord’s help, I will listen better. We are doing ALL of it for the Lord:)
Love and prayers to you all,
Tina
Glory in the Morning 