Those who have believing masters should not show them disrespect just because they are fellow believers. (1 Tim. 6:2)
My youngest son recently started his first “real” job at a local restaurant. Insatiably curious and a lover of adventure, he could not resist when he spotted a bright red button somewhat hidden beneath the countertop. Naturally, he “had to push it to see what it did.” He found out quickly when the police descended upon the restaurant, sirens blaring. My son had hit the panic button. Thankfully, his boss, a very gracious Christian man, quickly forgave him, noting that his training probably did not address the dangers of the red button clearly enough. I pray that his boss’s graciousness will lead my son to work harder and increase his loyalty and determination to do a good job. The last thing I would want him to do is to take advantage of the grace he has been given.
Today’s passage reminds us of the responsibility we have to respect and honor the authority of those God has placed in our lives, and this is especially true when submitting to fellow Christ followers. After all, we know they are compelled by love to forgive our missteps. This truth should not prompt laziness; it should promote loyalty.
In his letter, Paul instructed Timothy to insist that church members respect gracious Christian overseers. This is mutual devotion within God’s family. Instead of taking advantage of one another, we need to work together faithfully.
Work wholeheartedly for your brothers and sisters in Christ.
Dalene Fisher is a wife and mother. She serves as the dean of arts and sciences at Oklahoma Wesleyan University.
© 2019 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission.
