17 And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.18 Wives, submit to your husbands, as is fitting in the Lord.
19 Husbands, love your wives and do not be harsh with them.
20 Children, obey your parents in everything, for this pleases the Lord.
21 Fathers, do not embitter your children, or they will become discouraged.
22 Slaves, obey your earthly masters in everything; and do it, not only when their eye is on you and to win their favor, but with sincerity of heart and reverence for the Lord. 23 Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men, 24 since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving. 25 Anyone who does wrong will be repaid for his wrong, and there is no favoritism.
(Mary Magdalene anointing Christ's feet- serving Him)
Thoughts: The context of the advice to wives, husbands, children, fathers, slaves (1/3 of the Roman empire were slaves and most of the early gentile church were slaves), is "whatever you do" (vs. 17 and vs. 23). So the whole passage is an explanation of "whatever you do." It is like saying, "wherever you are" or "wherever you find yourself" this is some advice for you. Verse 17 says that whatever we do should be done in Christ's name. Verse 23 says that we should do "whatever we do" with all our heart. We should do our best- not just to win other's approval- to get prestige and human honor- but to honor God. Verse 24 points out that God rewards His servants (25 points out God punishes those who do wrong). Verse 24 also points out that we are not serving just human beings, but Christ. So, when we run into the complaining customer, the critic, the grouchy family member, the harsh or embittering father, or the overbearing boss, we should think of that sinner as someone God has made and cares about. We serve them not because they deserve it, but because Christ deserves to be glorified. If we take this seriously, it could change our life!
Prayer: Help me to serve you, O Lord, and honor you in whatever I do.
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