Paul’s letters have much to say to believers as we live out our faith in the work world. As he does here in Colossians 3:22-4:1, Paul usually speaks to both leaders and workers about the tough character and choices required to honor Christ in a difficult workplace environment. For example:

Finance

• Workers deserve payment for their work (1 Cor. 9:7-14).
• You are accountable for fair employee compensation (Col. 4:1).
• Handle wealth very delicately (1 Tim. 6:9-10, 17-18).

Work Relationships

• Bring your walk with Christ into each business relationship (2 Cor. 7:1).
• Value people highly (Gal. 5:14-15; Eph. 4:31-32).
• Treat and motivate employees with respect rather than threats (Eph. 6:5-9).
• Have a reasonable view of yourself (Rom. 12:3).

Communication

• Accusations must be verified (Matt. 18:15-35; 2 Cor. 13:1; 1 Tim. 5:19).
• Communication should always be gracious and truthful (Col. 4:6).

Responsibility

• Fulfill your commitments (Rom. 13:6-8).
• Remember your accountability (1 Cor. 3:9-15).
• Care for the poor and the weak (Rom. 12:13; Gal. 2:10).
• Learn how to handle times of bounty and leanness (Phil. 4:12).
• Remember, God’s Son gets the ultimate credit (Col. 1:17-18).
• Be sure to care for your own family (1 Tim. 5:8).
• Discern needs and meet them (Titus 3:14).
• Management
• View time not only in terms of time management, but also in light of the long-term implications of your decisions (2 Cor. 4:16-18; 2 Pet. 3:8-13).
• Help each employee discern the best thing to do (1 Thess. 5:14-15).
• Be willing to change your opinions (2 Cor. 5:16-17; Philem. 10-14).

The Word in Life Study Bible, New Testament Edition, (Thomas Nelson Publishers, Nashville; 1993), p. 706.