Bible Society of South Africa

It is common knowledge that a company’s employees are its greatest asset. Therefore good labour relations are of the utmost importance in creating a stable and profitable organisation. Labour unrest and poorly motivated employees cost the economy millions of rands every year. Healthy labour relations are based on mutual trust and respect with the understanding that everyone, employers as well as employees, (master and slave in Biblical times), are under the Lord’s authority. He expects employees to put in an honest day’s work and to be paid an honest wage.

"Do not steal anything or cheat anyone, and don’t fail to pay your workers at the end of each day."  Leviticus 19:13

"If you hire poor people to work for you, don’t hold back their pay, whether they are Israelites or foreigners who live in your town. Pay them their wages at the end of each day, because they live in poverty and need the money to survive. If you don’t pay them on time, they will complain about you to the Lord, and he will punish you."  Deuteronomy 24:14-15

"Slaves, you must obey your earthly masters. Show them great respect and be as loyal to them as you are to Christ. Try to please them at all times, and not just when you think they are watching. You are slaves of Christ, so with your whole heart you must do what God wants you to do. Gladly serve your masters, as though they were the Lord himself, and not simply people. You know that you will be rewarded for any good things you do, whether you are slaves or free. Slave owners, you must treat your slaves with this same respect. Don’t threaten them. They have the same Master in heaven that you do, and he doesn’t have any favourites." Ephesians 6:5-9

"Take care of a tree, and you will eat its fruit; look after your master, and you will be praised." Proverbs 27:18

Whether you are an employee or employer, consciously work at your relationship with everyone in your work environment today. Show the necessary respect and do your work wholeheartedly, as if working for the Lord.

Prayer: Lord Jesus, I must confess that it is not always easy to get along with everyone at work. I ask you to help me to treat others with respect and trust. Amen