PUNCHING THE CLOCK (Part 5)

ATTITUDES TOWARD THE EMPLOYEE

The Christian has two types of relationships in view under this heading. First, the Christian may be an employer, or manager, or some other authoritative role over other employees. What are the attitudes a Christian then should possess as the employer? Second, the Christian has a relationship with his fellow employees. What are the attitudes a Christian should possess as a fellow employee?

ATTITUDES OF AN EMPLOYER TO THE EMPLOYEE

An attitude of employment: "And, ye masters, do the same things unto them" (Eph. 6:9)--the attitudes that the employee was to have to the employer, the Chirstian as the "employer" should have towards the "employee." The employer should treat the employee with respect, not what Paul has said: "forbearing threatening" (Eph. 6:9). Paul likewise instructed the masters (employers): "Masters, give unto your servants that which is just and equal; knowing that ye also have a Master in heaven" (Col. 4:1). Brother Leon D. Stancliff summarizes the employer's attitude by saying:

Masters are to treat their servants as they would like to be treated if they were a servant. This is directly in line with what Jesus advised. He said, "As ye would that men should do unto you, do ye even so unto them." One day each of us will stand before God. It shall then be measured out to us as we have measured to others (Volume 6, 325).

ATTITUDES OF AN EMPLOYEE TO OTHER EMPLOYEES

Once again all of the attitudes shown so far will apply. The effect of showing the respect to the employer as well as to fellow employees is to preach Christ by action. Simply applying the Christian graces to our lives in front of others; it is that life that shines forth to men on behalf of God! (Mat. 5:16). It should be the Christians purpose to influence (by letting his light shine) others by:

• What one says (Mat. 12:34-35).
• What one does (Phi. 1:27).
• How one loves (John 13:34-35).
• One's faith in action (Jam. 2:18).
• The spirit one manifests (Luke 10:27).
• One's godly actions (1 Pet. 1:15).
• How well one follows the example of Christ (1 Pet. 2:21-22).

(to be continued...)