Why work?

As I sit here and type this blog, I am thinking about some people that I work with. I get incredibly frustrated with the complaining about working, gossip about each other, not taking responsibility for actions, not respecting those in authority over you.......this list could be endless!! I think the problem that amazes me the most, is doing something only for the praise of man! They are professing believers in Jesus (with the exception of 1), and this is really disturbing! Dont get me wrong I have my moments of incredible frustration........my hubby could vouch for it, but God's approval of my actions means more to me than any mans. I will follow the instructions and rules handed down by those in authority over me, this is commanded by God, but I will do what is expected of me not to please them, rather to please my Father who has given me everything!! If we obey God's instruction regarding work, then our earthly master and our Heavenly Master are both pleased. God is so cool to have set it up like that!

I have been reflecting on scripture about this. God has shown me my own sin in how I handle the situations.
1. Sometimes, I speak quick and "fly hot"; when I should be slow to speak and remember that I can be angry but do not sin.
2. I should do everything without complaining!
3. I am responsible for my actions and need to take the plank out of my eye before I take a splinter out of my brothers.
Oh, how wretched I am!! Still amazed that God would even want anything to do with me at all!
I am very thankful for His discipline, His teaching, His love, His answers, His speaking......He is so very good to me!!

I have a responsibility as a follower of Christ to obey His commands about work. My authorities also have a responsibility........but I cant make them do what is right. I can however tell them the truth, in love, as commanded by my Father.

Colossians 3:22-24 says
22 Slaves, [6] obey in everything those who are your earthly masters, [7] not by way of eye-service, as people-pleasers, but with sincerity of heart, fearing the Lord. 23 Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, 24 knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward.

God help us all to be the employee You have commanded us to.