'And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.  Wives, submit to your husbands, as is fitting in the Lord.  Husbands, love your wives, and do not be harsh with them.  Children, obey your parents in everything, for this pleases the Lord.  Fathers, do not provoke your children, lest they become discouraged.  Slaves, obey in everything those who are your earthly masters, not by way of eye-service, as people-pleasers, but with sincerity of heart, fearing the Lord.  Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ" (Colossians 3:17-24). 

I was paid today.  I like getting paid for the work I do.  There is a sense of accomplishment, appreciation, and value in a paycheck.  No, it doesn't make me who I am but it allows me to provide for my family and enjoy some blessings in life.

Unfortunately, there were times in my life that I felt unappreciated by my paycheck.  I felt like "I was going nowhere financially".  I felt like, "I was in a dead-end job".  I even entertained the thought that, "My wife makes more than me - I must be a looser".

Yet, in Christ, no one is a looser.  Jesus gave us eternal life!  Let's be responsible in our Christian "job" and enjoy the blessings that come from a relationship with Christ.  Yes, sometimes it is hard work.  Sometimes, you may feel like you're not "paid" enough.  Don't forget, a Christian's reward is truly in Heaven with God and Christ.  There are and will continue to be many struggles in our physical "job".  Remember to work as for Christ.

The Lord's humbled . . . John A. Reeves