Ephesians 6:7-8 - Unto Christ

Observation

Key words:

Goodwill = friendly disposition; benevolence; kindness (dictionary.com)

Service =  an act of helpful activity; help; aid: to do someone a service (dictionary.com).

Promise: 

whatever good thing each one does he will receive back from the Lord.

Do I serve cheerfully?

I would say that I had a moment recently where I was grumbling about ministering to others, and when I look back over the years, I am sad to say that I see the past littered with moments of discontentment.  Probably only the people closest to me noticed the disposition change, because I had learned how to fake happiness in my several years in customer service. However, God is referring to being genuinely happy to serve others, because in doing so you are serving Him. In the few sentences before this verse, in Ephesians 6:5-6 Paul say's Slaves, be obedient to those who are your masters according to the flesh, with fear and trembling, in the sincerity of your heart, as to Christ;  not by way of eyeservice, as men-pleasers, but as slaves of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart(Emphasis mine).  

Why does being a slave or being free matter?

The whole first part of Ephesians chapter 6 is all about how to treat others. From parent and child, to master and slave.  So certainly the text is driving that point home.  But also, I think we as Christians get caught up with how prestigious our work is.  Sometimes in our minds the person who preaching to thousands may seem more important in God's eyes and have more reward, then the person cleaning the toilet.  But  that isn't the case according to God's word.  According to His word, regardless of how man labels me (slave, free, successful, poor, rich, etc.) everything that I do out of love for Christ is rewarded.

What does the reward in this text look like based on your actions?

1 Corinthians 12:9 say's but just as it is written," THINGS WHICH EYE HAS NOT SEEN AND EAR HAS NOT HEARD,AND which HAVE NOT ENTERED THE HEART OF MAN,ALL THAT GOD HAS PREPARED FOR THOSE WHO LOVE HIM." So it is difficult to really wrap my mind around the reward God has for me. With that said, I heard a story once of a man who died and came back, what he experienced during that time that he was dead, was all the joy he had brought to others.  Every time he made a heart smile or comforted those who were hurting, he felt covered with those same emotions.  I think there is some truth in that story. 

Can you serve others without expecting a "thank you" in return?

I certainly want to be the type of person that can, but sadly enough, I can think of several occasions where I haven't been.  Nevertheless, God is not done with me yet and I am looking forward to this text taking a deep root in my heart and being lived out in action.  Make me more like You Jesus!

Application

1. I will tell people when they make me smile, comfort, or encourage me.  I guess I want them to know that their actions will have wonderful eternal ramifications.
2. I will treat others as if they were Christ. 
3. I will not need appreciation from others to serve and love them.

Prayer

Jesus You came to serve and give Your life as a ransom for many (Matthew 20:28).  Please forgive me for my grumbling and complaining.  Just like Paul, I want to be content in any and every situation (Philippians 4:11-13).  Please break my heart for those who are hurting and help me love those who are not easy to love.  I desire to serve and love all as if unto You.  I praise You for Your unfailing love, please lead me in Your righteousness.