Do It All Heartily as to the Lord

“And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men” (Colossians 3:23, NKJV)

In the passage, the Apostle Paul encourages us to focus on heavenly things and not on earthly things. Contrary to what other people believe, these do not pertain to distinguish between sacred and secular jobs. The things above (heavenly) are those we do in living the new life given by Jesus Christ our Lord, as enumerated in Colossians 3:12-16 (tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness, longsuffering; bearing with one another, and forgiving one another). The things on earth (earthly) are those done apart from Him. Those deeds that are not aligned or according to His will. Deeds that we must be put away from our lives and need to be extinguished, as listed in Colossians 3:5-9 (fornication, uncleanness, passion, evil desire, and covetousness, which is idolatry).

Moreover, it is not about the lives of “ministers” that are considered more valuable than those with other occupations, with the perception that they do more spiritual/heavenly actions. Not everyone has a calling to be a pastor, but every believer is part of the Church – “the called out ones,” the elect of God, holy, and beloved. So, everyone has an opportunity to serve God in whatever areas in life and employment. That includes whether one is an employee or an employer, as stated in Colossians 3:22-4:1.

The spiritual value of the deed is not just the job and its content but with one’s conduct and character while performing it. It all counts when we do it all unto the Lord to please Him, whether we did it in the Church ministries or secular jobs, at home or wherever.

Therefore, let us be mindful of our actions. As we go on with our daily lives, let us seek and set our minds to focus on godly things. Let us put away earthly ways and behaviors, and that wherever we are, whatever we do, we do it all unto the Lord with gladness of heart for His glory.

– Contributed by Ptr Neil Marlon Crisostomo