Work as Worship: Honoring God in Every Task

Devotional

Day 1: Serve Wholeheartedly as Unto the Lord

When you approach your work—whether it’s a job, a volunteer role, or a task at home—remember that you are ultimately serving the Lord, not just your earthly boss or those around you. This perspective transforms even the most mundane or challenging tasks into opportunities to honor God, infusing your efforts with deeper joy and purpose. When you fill out a form, speak to a customer, or complete a project, do it with excellence and sincerity, knowing that God sees and values your work. Your attitude and diligence become acts of worship, reflecting your devotion to Christ in every setting. [37:38]

Ephesians 6:5-9 (ESV)
"Bondservants, obey your earthly masters with fear and trembling, with a sincere heart, as you would Christ, not by the way of eye-service, as people-pleasers, but as bondservants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart, rendering service with a good will as to the Lord and not to man, knowing that whatever good anyone does, this he will receive back from the Lord, whether he is a bondservant or is free. Masters, do the same to them, and stop your threatening, knowing that he who is both their Master and yours is in heaven, and that there is no partiality with him."

Reflection:
What is one specific task you have today that you usually find tedious or frustrating? How can you intentionally do it as an act of service to the Lord, and what might change in your attitude as a result?

Day 2: All Work Is Sacred When Done for God

There is no division between sacred and secular work in God’s eyes; whether you are preaching, washing dishes, teaching children, or preparing a meal, all work done to honor the Lord is holy. This truth elevates every role and responsibility, reminding us that God values faithfulness and excellence in every sphere of life. When you serve with a willing heart, your everyday actions become acts of worship, and you bring the presence of God wherever you go. [49:33]

Colossians 3:23 (ESV)
"Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men."

Reflection:
Think of a routine or “ordinary” responsibility you have this week. How can you approach it with the mindset that it is holy work, and what practical step will you take to honor God through it?

Day 3: Reflect God’s Image Through Excellence and Creativity

God is a creative and excellent worker, and as people made in His image, we reflect His character when we pursue excellence, creativity, and beauty in our work. Whether designing, building, serving, or caring, your passion for quality and your desire to do things well are rooted in God’s own nature. When you complete a task and can say, “This is good,” you honor your Creator, and your work becomes a testimony to His goodness and glory. [45:10]

Genesis 1:31 (ESV)
"And God saw everything that he had made, and behold, it was very good. And there was evening and there was morning, the sixth day."

Reflection:
What is one area of your work or service where you can intentionally pursue greater excellence or creativity this week? How might this reflect God’s character to those around you?

Day 4: God Sees and Rewards Faithful Service

Even when your efforts go unnoticed or unappreciated by others, God sees your faithfulness and promises to reward you. Whether you are an employee, a volunteer, or a leader, your wholehearted service matters to God, and He delights in your diligence. The reward may not always be immediate or material, but God’s pleasure and eternal recognition far outweigh any earthly acknowledgment. [52:36]

Colossians 3:24 (ESV)
"Knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ."

Reflection:
Recall a time when your hard work was overlooked or unrecognized. How does knowing that God sees and rewards your faithfulness encourage you to keep serving wholeheartedly today?

Day 5: Treat Others with Respect and Kindness, Reflecting Christ

As you interact with others—whether as an employee, employer, or coworker—treat them with respect and kindness, not because they always deserve it, but because you are representing Christ. God shows no favoritism, and He calls you to honor others regardless of their position or behavior. Your words, actions, and attitudes can be a powerful witness to the love and justice of God in your workplace and community. [54:58]

Matthew 25:40 (ESV)
"And the King will answer them, ‘Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me.’"

Reflection:
Who is one person in your workplace or daily life that you find difficult to respect or serve? What is one practical way you can show them Christlike kindness and honor this week?

Sermon Summary

Work is a gift from God, and every task—no matter how ordinary or unseen—can be an act of worship when done for the Lord. Whether serving in a workplace, volunteering, or caring for family, each moment is an opportunity to reflect God’s character and bring Him glory. The world often divides work into “sacred” and “secular,” but in Christ, all work is holy when offered to God. The way we approach our jobs, our attitude, and our diligence are not just about pleasing earthly bosses, but about honoring our true Master in heaven.

Scripture teaches that we are made in the image of a creative, excellent God. When we work with excellence, creativity, and integrity, we mirror His nature. Even in roles that seem menial or thankless, our labor is significant because God sees and values it. The Apostle Paul’s words to slaves in Ephesians 6 remind us that our ultimate boss is the Lord, and He rewards faithfulness, even when no one else notices. Respect for those in authority is not conditional on their character, but is an act of obedience to God, with boundaries set by His Word.

Employers and those in leadership are also called to treat those under their care with dignity and fairness, remembering that God shows no favoritism. The way we manage, speak, and lead should reflect the heart of Christ. In all things, we are called to serve wholeheartedly, knowing that our work—whether washing dishes, managing a business, or preaching—is equally valuable in God’s eyes when done for Him.

As we gather at the Lord’s table, we remember that Christ’s sacrifice gives meaning to every part of our lives, including our work. We look back with gratitude, live in the present with His presence, and look forward to the day when we will celebrate with Him in His kingdom. Until then, may every task, big or small, be done as an offering to the One who gave everything for us.

Key Takeaways

1. All Work Is Holy When Done for God There is no division between sacred and secular work in the eyes of God. Whether preaching, cleaning, or serving in any capacity, each task is equally valuable when offered to the Lord. This truth frees us to find purpose and dignity in every kind of work, knowing that God delights in our faithfulness and excellence. [49:33]
2. We Reflect God’s Image Through Excellence and Creativity God is a creative and excellent worker, and we are made in His image. When we approach our work with creativity, diligence, and a desire for quality, we mirror His character. Even non-believers, by creating beauty or serving well, unknowingly display aspects of God’s glory, but as believers, we do so intentionally for His honor. [43:45]
3. Our True Boss Is the Lord, Not Just Our Earthly Employer While we have earthly supervisors, our ultimate accountability is to Christ. This perspective transforms our attitude, motivating us to serve wholeheartedly, with integrity, even when no one is watching. It also means that our reward comes from God, who sees every act of faithfulness, regardless of human recognition. [36:44]
4. Respect and Integrity Are Non-Negotiable, But Have Boundaries We are called to respect those in authority, not because they always deserve it, but because of their God-given position. However, our obedience has limits—if asked to do something contrary to God’s Word, we must stand firm in integrity. In this way, we become a conscience and a light in our workplaces and communities. [39:28]
5. Leaders Must Reflect Christ’s Heart in How They Treat Others Those in positions of authority are to lead with fairness, kindness, and humility, remembering that God shows no favoritism. The way we manage or direct others should be shaped by the knowledge that we, too, are under God’s authority. Every interaction is an opportunity to honor Christ and build others up.

** [54:58]

Youtube Chapters

[00:00] - Welcome
[05:29] - Greeting Newcomers and Announcements
[07:06] - Remembering Cindy McPherson
[08:44] - Upcoming Membership Class
[09:44] - Community Events and Updates
[10:32] - Call to Worship and Psalm 96
[12:34] - Prayer for God’s Character in Us
[13:59] - Prayers for Ministries and Needs
[23:41] - Resurrection and Offering
[27:18] - The Power of Attitude in Work
[30:01] - Ephesians 6: Slaves, Masters, and Work
[32:12] - Slavery in Biblical Times Explained
[35:54] - Serving Two Bosses: Earthly and Heavenly
[38:58] - Unconditional Respect and Boundaries
[41:39] - Excellence as God’s Image-Bearers
[47:25] - No Sacred/Secular Divide in Work
[51:26] - God’s Reward for Faithful Work
[54:58] - Christlike Leadership and Authority
[58:57] - The Lord’s Table: Past, Present, Future
[73:22] - Closing Blessing and Next Steps

Bible Study Guide

Bible Reading

Ephesians 6:5-9 (ESV) — > 5 Bondservants, obey your earthly masters with fear and trembling, with a sincere heart, as you would Christ,
> 6 not by the way of eye-service, as people-pleasers, but as bondservants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart,
> 7 rendering service with a good will as to the Lord and not to man,
> 8 knowing that whatever good anyone does, this he will receive back from the Lord, whether he is a bondservant or is free.
> 9 Masters, do the same to them, and stop your threatening, knowing that he who is both their Master and yours is in heaven, and that there is no partiality with him.

Observation Questions

According to Ephesians 6:5-8, what attitudes and behaviors does Paul call for in those who serve under authority?
What does Paul say is the true motivation for how we work, and who is our ultimate “boss”? ([36:44])
In verse 9, what instructions are given to those in positions of authority or leadership?
The sermon mentioned that in God’s eyes, there is no division between “sacred” and “secular” work. What examples did the pastor give to illustrate this? ([49:33])

Interpretation Questions

Why do you think Paul emphasizes serving “as to the Lord and not to man”? How might this change someone’s approach to a job that feels menial or thankless? ([36:44])
The sermon said that even non-believers reflect God’s creativity and excellence when they do good work, but believers do so intentionally for God’s honor. What is the difference between these two motivations? ([43:45])
Paul instructs both workers and leaders to act with integrity and fairness, regardless of how they are treated. What challenges might someone face in living this out, especially if their boss or employees are difficult? ([38:58])
The pastor said, “Respect is unconditional, but obedience has boundaries.” What does this mean in practical terms for a Christian in the workplace? ([39:28])

Application Questions

Think about your current job, volunteer role, or responsibilities at home. In what ways could you more intentionally “work as for the Lord” this week? What would that look like in your attitude or actions? ([36:44])
The sermon challenged us to see all work as holy when done for God. Is there a task in your life that feels insignificant or frustrating? How might viewing it as an offering to God change your perspective? ([49:33])
Have you ever struggled to respect someone in authority over you? How did you handle it, and what might you do differently in light of Paul’s teaching? ([38:58])
If you are in a position of leadership (at work, home, or church), how can you better reflect Christ’s heart in the way you treat those under your care? Are there specific changes you feel prompted to make? ([54:58])
The pastor shared a story about someone whose attitude at work changed when they realized God delighted in their faithfulness, even when no one else noticed. Have you ever felt unseen or unappreciated in your work? How does knowing God sees and rewards faithfulness encourage you? ([53:40])
The sermon said that obedience to authority has boundaries—if asked to do something against God’s Word, we must stand firm. Have you ever faced a situation where you had to draw a line at work or in another setting? How did you respond, or how would you hope to respond next time? ([39:28])
As we remember Christ’s sacrifice at the Lord’s table, how does His example of wholehearted service and sacrifice inspire you in your daily work? ([58:57])

Sermon Clips

``Paul doesn't say, respect them if they are respectable. Sometimes they are, sometimes they aren't. No respect is unconditional. This is true for a wife's respect of her husband and for our respect of one another. For a child's respect of their parent. And here for employer or slave, in this case, employer respecting their boss or their employer, you respect a person not because they're necessarily respectable. Hopefully they are. You respect them because of their position in your life, but you do it as unto the Lord. [00:38:51] (34 seconds) #RespectPositionNotPerson

The text tells us to do the will from our heart. You do God's will when you work from the heart and you work with excellence. Whenever you pour your heart into your job, no matter what it may be—cleaning a toilet or stocking a shelf or doing medical procedure, whatever it might be—as you do it with excellence and with a positive attitude, you're doing the will of God. [00:41:11] (27 seconds) #ServeWithHeartAndExcellence

In fact, when we do a job well, we're expressing the image of God in whom we were made. We were all made, the Bible tells us, in the image of God. And God is a creator God and He always has done things with excellence and creativity and he gives us skill and ingenuity and creativity and insight and abilities. And as we use our God given abilities well, we reflect him the way. Him honor and joy. [00:41:39] (42 seconds) #ReflectGodThroughCreativity

See, behind all beauty is a creative designer. Create, to design, to work with excellence. And behind all quality and people who care about the work is a God who cares about people, about kindness, about quality, about beauty. God began with chaos and disorder, formless and void, the Bible says, was how things were before creation. And then he speaks and he creates. And when God created, He says Genesis 1:10 and other places. And God saw that it was good. God was saying, I do good work. [00:44:31] (48 seconds) #GodValuesQualityAndKindness

When we complete a task, whether it's paid or volunteer, and we can look at it and say, this is good, we honor Our Creator. When we provide excellence in service goods to others with a good attitude, serving them well, working with our whole heart. We honor the God in whose image we're made. He does all things with excellence. We express God's image through our excellence. And that could turn a job that is drudgery, like handing out change in a toll booth, to joy, to meaningful. [00:45:41] (46 seconds) #ExcellenceHonorsOurCreator

But showing up late, cutting corners and trying to do as little as possible without being fired and with a lousy attitude dishonors God in whose image we were made. And he'll wreck your joy. As followers of Christ, we should be. I mean, our skill levels vary. You may not be the most skilled. Serve wholeheartedly, as if you were serving the Lord, not people. Paul tells workers they're serving the Lord. [00:46:28] (65 seconds) #ServeWholeheartedlyForGod

For about a thousand years in history, the Church taught a division between the sacred and the secular. Those who were priests and monks and nuns were in sacred or holy work, and the rest of us were in secular work. Now that was true to some event or some extent in the Old Testament times, but not in the New Testament. In the Old Testament times, there was a select group in Israel that were called priests or Levites who were considered especially holy. And they were set apart by God for work at the temple and other unique things that they were called to, caring for the poor and other things. But in the New Testament, there it's taught that we are all priests, we are all holy, and God's temple is no longer a building, it's a people. And wherever you go, as the temple of God, you bring the presence of God. And as priests, all we do, wherever we go, what we do is all holy. [00:47:32] (67 seconds) #AllWorkIsHolyService

There's no difference when done that. There's no difference when done to the honor of the Lord between preaching and washing the dishes. The work that you do preparing a meal for Alpha or an event, the care that you take when you teach the kids here at the Covenant Church or our youth, the work you do back in the sound area or hospitality, all these, they're in God's eyes as you do them. They're equal to what I do up here when I preach. Truly. [00:49:42] (38 seconds) #EqualValueInEveryTask

As you work, work as unto the Lord. And when you're done, pause and thank the Lord for the joy of working for him. Take time to tell someone that you appreciate what they do. Be specific. If you are an employee, ask, if I am doing this job for the Lord, how will that change my attitude? How will that change how I apply myself? Jesus said, I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me. If you are an employer or a boss, ask am I treating my employees as I would treat Jesus? [00:56:49] (38 seconds)

Ask a question about this sermon

Chatbot

Transcript

What was the most surprising thing in this sermon?

Were there any personal stories shared?