No work is merely work. Work is a way to serve Christ. As believers, we have been raised from
death to life. We have been saved by grace through the finished work of Christ and his cross.
We now have the indwelling power and presence of the Holy Spirit. Maybe, just maybe, “I can
do all things through Christ who strengthens me” should be seen in our attitudes at work not
just on our coffee cups. Maybe that verse in intended to help us live out the gospel in the
workplace and find meaning and purpose in the way we make a living.

Reflection

What motivation, goals, and hope do believers have when we care for children and how are they
different from those of non-believers? Why is it important to set a Christlike example for
children? Whose responsibility is it to disciple children? What can parents do to avoid having
their authority undermined? How should verses 5-9 inform our work ethic? How should it change
the way we relate to people? How should it help us evaluate our priorities?