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“Slaves, submit yourselves to your masters with all respect, not only to those who are good and considerate, but also to those who are harsh.  For it is commendable if a man bears up under the pain of unjust suffering because he is conscious of God.” 1 Peter 2:18–19

There’s not a lot of slavery going on in Australia, the USA, the UK, New Zealand or similar countries.  There is still slavery in the world today in other places.  However in Roman times, slavery was normal everywhere and it was not uncommon for slaves to become Christians – but of course they were still slaves just the same.  So the Bible spoke to these slaves about their attitude in such a situation. 

By the way, for those who want to see an incredible movie about the abolishment of the slave trade in England, watch Amazing Grace which is the story of William Wilberforce, and also includes John Newton.  John was originally a slave trader who found Christ and realised he was a “wretch” and wrote the song Amazing Grace.  William Wilberforce wanted to serve God and felt that it conflicted with his political career.  Later he realised that he could serve God as a politician – and he changed the world. 

Anyway – you and I have probably never had any acquantance with slavery – but the words of the Bible apply to us as employees.  We all work for someone. 

We can all think of situations where our “boss” did the wrong thing by us, and we deserved to be paid more, or we worked overtime without pay, or we were demoted unjustly, or made to do things outside our job description… the list goes on.  The Bible says to “submit ourselves… with all respect.” 

The first conclusion is that we should not say anything negative about our employers – even if it would be true.  We should imagine that they deserve great honour (like God does) and approach from such a perspective.  Secondly we should endure hardship because doing so with a positive attitude is - according to the Bible - commendable. 

Elsewhere in the we learn that promotion comes from the Lord. (James 4:10)  So to do what God asks, and that which is commendable, and to do so with a positive thankful heart… that is the key to promotion and blessing.  Just ask Job – He’ll tell you I’m right.