How am I to act toward my boss? He is not Christian and he can get angry and upset at times.
Suggested Daily Reading: Ephesians 6
God calls us to be respectful and obedient to those placed in authority over us. This includes our parents, church leaders, and employers/managers. This is true not only for those leaders who conduct themselves in a respectful way, but for all. We read in I Peter 2:18-20, “Servants, be subject (obedient) to your masters with all fear (respect); not only to the good and gentle, but also to the forward. For this is thankworthy, if a man for conscience toward God endure grief, suffering wrongfully. For what glory is it, if, when ye be buffeted for your faults, ye take it patiently? But if, when ye do well, and suffer for it, ye take it patiently, this is acceptable with God.”
While it is much easier to respect a person in authority who conducts him or herself in a respectful manner, a Christian’s desire to honor God may become more clearly visible when the Christian respects and honors a boss who does not live in respectful ways. While one may not respect a leader’s actions, we are to respect the leader’s office.
How can a person do this? Wonder if my boss criticizes me unfairly, and does so in front of others? What should I do? Pray for grace to be respectful and to look to Jesus. The verses which immediately follow the command quoted above from I Peter 2:18-20 instruct us to respond in respectful ways, stating “For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us with an example, that ye should follow his steps: Who did no sin, neither was guile found in His mouth: Who when He was reviled, reviled not again; when He suffered, He threatened not; but committed Himself to Him that judgeth righteously” (I Peter 2:21-23).
Scripture instructs us to show respect for our leaders and employers. Consider the following ways:
Being obedient
Serving faithfully
Acting promptly and willingly
Showing patience
Demonstrating humility and respect
Seeing God’s providence in the situation
Knowing God’s will and following it in this dimension of our lives is important, as it is in every aspect of life.
Why is it important for Christians to show due respect and obedience to their managers or bosses? How can we grow more Christ-like in this area of life? Why is it so important to draw our strength from Christ to be more humble, respectful and obedient? What traits are you demonstrating to others regarding your respect for, and willing obedience to those placed in authority over you.