Honoring All

In a world often shaped by power dynamics, status, and hierarchy, the call of Scripture invites us into a different way of living—one that’s marked by mutual honor and Christlike humility. Ephesians 5:21 sets the foundation: “Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ.” This one verse redefines how we interact in our homes, workplaces, and churches. What if our relationships were less about control and more about respect? Less about authority and more about service?

That foundational call to mutual submission may sound normal when applied to family or friendships, but Ephesians surprises us by applying it to one of the most unexpected relationships of the ancient world—slaves and masters. In Ephesians 6:5–9, Paul writes to both sides, not to affirm the system of slavery, but to remind both slaves and masters that Christ is Lord of all. His kingdom doesn't play favorites. Status, title, and income don’t impress God. Instead, He sees the heart, the actions, and the way we treat one another.

There’s deep theology behind this passage. First, Christ is Lord—over every relationship and role. Second, God shows no favoritism. That means we shouldn’t either. In God’s economy, a janitor and a CEO have the same eternal value. Third, work is not just about earning a paycheck; it’s about worship. Whether you're working a drive-thru window or leading a corporation, your daily tasks matter to God.

For employees and workers, this challenges how we approach our jobs. Colossians 3:23–24 reminds us to “work willingly at whatever you do, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people.” That means doing the right thing even when no one is watching. It means aiming for excellence not to impress a boss, but to honor Christ. Our integrity at work is one of the clearest ways we reflect our faith.

If you're in leadership, the call is just as clear: lead with grace, not with threats or intimidation. Ephesians 6:9 reminds us that God is watching leaders too. The real measure of leadership isn’t how many people serve you, but how many people you lift up. A wise saying puts it best: If you’re too big to serve, you’re too small to lead. In the kingdom of God, leadership always looks like humility in action.

So what ties it all together? The reminder in verses 8 and 9 that God sees everything. He sees the long hours, the overlooked contributions, the quiet sacrifices. Whether we’re being led or leading others, our reward comes from Him—not from earthly recognition. This truth keeps us grounded and fuels us to keep honoring others, even when it’s hard.

This week, let’s take the truth of this passage into our work lives. If you work for someone else, choose one task to do with excellence and joy—even if no one notices. If you lead others, take time to personally thank someone who serves under your leadership. And for all of us—look for someone others tend to ignore or overlook, and honor them in a meaningful way.

In a culture obsessed with climbing ladders, Christ calls us to something better: honoring all. That’s the way of His kingdom—and it’s the kind of life that changes workplaces, homes, and churches from the inside out.