This Is a Test. This Is Only a Test

Read Colossians 3:18-4:1 and Ephesians 5:21-6:9
Title in NIV: Follow guidelines for the Christian family.

I think we all know these verses: Wives submit to your husband. Husbands love your wives. Children obey your parents. Fathers don't embitter your children. Slaves obey your earthly masters. Masters provide for your slaves what is right.

There are several points not to be overlooked.
1. Verse 22 says to do these things not only when the master's eye is on you, but do it with sincerity of heart and reverence for the Lord.

Character is how you act when no one is looking. Character is what you say about someone when you have turned your back to walk away. Character is in the heart. You may be able to fake it on the outside, but God knows the heart and motives of a man.

2. Verse 22 says whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord...It is the Lord Jesus Christ you are serving.

Since everyone is made in the image of God, and we are all his children, how we treat others is a glimpse into our heart about how we feel about God himself. We are practicing respect and submission and humbleness here on earth with our family, friends and even strangers. How we treat others reflects how we feel about submitting to God and how we feel about respecting God. If we do not respect his children and his creations, somewhere inside we do not respect God.

We have consequences with our actions. If we gossip, the consequence is: people will not confide in you. If you are deceptive, the consequence is: people will not trust you. If you nag your children or spouse, the consequence is: they will pull away emotionally and not want to be with you.

Here are some phrases from Ephesians:
1. Treat your husband as you would treat the Lord. (no matter how he treats you)
2. Husbands love your wife as Christ loved his church and gave himself up for her (read Hosea! now that is love)
3. Slaves obey master just as you would obey Christ. (we are all a slave to someone: a boss, a teacher etc.)
4. Be like slaves of Christ. Be a slave to righteousness.
5. Do all you do wholeheartedly as you would serve the Lord.
6. Every master on earth has a Master in heaven.

So, basically, this life is just a test. A test to see how you will treat those around you. Sometimes it is hard. God did not always have a positive word for his children, but He was always compassionate.
Are you passing your test?

Blessings to you for the week.