Be Just and Fair #236

Masters, give your bondservants what is just and fair, knowing that you also have a Master in heaven. (Colossians 4:1)

The workplace should not be dreaded, but often is. Those in authority over workers will improve the work environment by applying the principles stated in today’s passage. Even though few, if any, are literally masters over slaves today, if you own a business or have a management position, then this passage is for you. Two principles ought to prevail and guide your behavior toward those under your authority. First, apply the principles of justice and fairness. You are not a dictator, so don’t act like a tyrant. Treat your employees with kindness, fairness and impartiality, and you gain their respect, not their resentment. Second, remember that you have a Master over you. You will answer to the Lord for how you conduct yourself over others. Treat those under your authority with respect and decency, knowing you will answer to God in heaven, “and there is no partiality with Him” (Eph. 6:9).