Slaves, obey your earthly masters in everything; and do it, not only when their eye is on you and to win their favor, but with sincerity of heart and reverence for the Lord. Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving. Col. 3: 22-24, NIV
“You know,” she said, “when I taught first grade in your classroom, I put up a mirror on the closet door and I could see everyone who came through the front door of the school and went toward the office.”
My colleague Mona had devised a way to know when the superintendent was in the building, when the principal was on his way, or when that certain parent had arrived for a visit. She had figured it out! No one could catch her off guard. She would know for certain when to be on her best behavior.
Recalling Mona’s comical remedies, I thought of the many times when my superiors visited me in that classroom. I genuinely tried to be myself and not do anything differently, put on airs, or impress. I wanted to be the same regardless of who was watching.
However, our human nature wants to please. We do our best when others are watching and then let down our guard when they are not. But God isn’t pleased when we do things only to be seen by others and put on our best just so others will think well of us.
Today, remember that our goal should be to glorify Him at all times, regardless of who is watching.
Lord, please help us remember we are working for You today. Thank you that You are always encouraging and inspiring us. Amen.
Copyright Shirley Wilson.
Shirley is a retired member and former board member of Christian Educators.
