The commandments in Colossians 3:18 – 4:1 are to meet the needs of other people.
The greatest need of the employer is to have workers that you can trust. The greatest need of parents is to know that their children are safe and healthy, because they have learnt to obey the wisdom of the elders. The greatest need of the husband is to be in-charge. The great need of a wife is to be loved. And as we obey these commandments that God has given to us, we are helping the other person be what God has called them to be. We are meeting the needs that they have.
The following are some practical applications:
1. Wives, tell your husbands today that with God’s help, you are going to follow his lead.
2. Husbands, think of one thing you can do today to put your love into action, even if you do not feel like it. If you have any bitterness toward your wife, confess it to God and her and get over with it.
3. Children, practice first time obedience. Say something like this, “Yes mom, I will obey.” Instead of pouting or yelling.
4. Parents, ask your children this week one thing that you have been doing that exasperates them. Get alone with each child to reaffirm your love.
5. Employees, try to picture Jesus as your boss this week. Think through how your work would be different with Him behind the desk of your supervisor.
6. Employers, pray for your employees by name everyday this week. At the end of the week, ask each one if you think you are treating them fairly.
The way we love and submit in the home, the way we work in our jobs, the way we treat our employees, are all a reflection of our relationship with God. As Paul put it in Colossians 3:23: “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord and not for men.”) (KEN HENSON)