Work with a smile on your face, always keeping in mind that no matter who happens to be giving the orders, you’re really serving God. Good work will get you good pay from the Master, regardless of whether you are slave or free… Masters, it’s the same with you. (Eph 6:5-9 The Message)
Ephesians 6 is best known for its passage on spiritual warfare – standing in God’s armour against the enemy. The majority of the chapter though is about relationships – within families and in the place of work. We can’t exercise spiritual authority unless we recognise God’s delegated authority and the importance of maintaining right relationships. In fact much of spiritual warfare is about right relationships; we stand against anything that would restrict the blessing that flows from a relationship with God for us and His creation. The biggest act of spiritual warfare was the cross and that made relationship with God possible. So when things don’t go smoothly with someone today – smile and keep a right relationship, it’s your act of spiritual warfare!
Lord, help me interact correctly with those I meet today. Give me grace for the relationships I find difficult and help me to be an agent of reconciliation where it is needed. Protect my family relationships (parents, spouse, children) and deepen my relationship with You today.