What does "try to please them" teach about Christian attitudes in the workplace? Setting the Scene • Titus 2:9: “Slaves are to submit to their masters in everything, to be well-pleasing, not argumentative.” • In Paul’s world, many believers were bond-servants. Today, most believers are employees. The principle carries over: believers under authority should aim to be “well-pleasing.” What “well-pleasing” Looks Like • Genuine Initiative – not waiting to be prodded, but looking for ways to advance the employer’s goals. • Cheerful Cooperation – choosing a positive spirit rather than grudging compliance. • Consistent Reliability – showing up on time, finishing tasks, keeping promises. • Respectful Communication – speaking with courtesy, even when correcting errors or offering ideas. Why This Matters • It honors God’s order. 1 Corinthians 14:33 reminds us that “God is not a God of disorder.” Order in the workplace reflects His character. • It adorns the gospel. Titus 2:10 continues, “…so that in every way they will make the teaching about God our Savior attractive.” When believers serve well, the message looks beautiful. • It silences critics. 1 Peter 2:15: “For it is God’s will that by doing good you should silence the ignorance of foolish men.” Excellence at work mutes accusations against the faith. Echoes in Other Scriptures • Colossians 3:22-24 – work “not only to please men, but with sincerity of heart and fear of the Lord…whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord.” • Ephesians 6:5-8 – serve “as bondservants of Christ, doing the will of God from your heart.” • Proverbs 22:29 – “Do you see a man skillful in his work? He will stand before kings.” God values diligence and skill. Practical Takeaways for the Modern Workplace • Arrive early, stay engaged, finish strong. • Follow instructions fully before suggesting alternatives. • Keep complaints private; offer solutions publicly. • Guard the company’s time and resources as if they were your own. • Speak of supervisors respectfully, whether or not they are present. The Heart Behind the Habit • Working “as for the Lord” lifts every task—filing paperwork, stocking shelves, writing code—into worship (Colossians 3:23-24). • Presenting ourselves “well-pleasing” anticipates the moment we’ll present ourselves to Christ, hearing, “Well done, good and faithful servant” (Matthew 25:21). |
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