1 Thessalonians 1.3: “We continually remember before our God and Father your work produced by faith, your labor prompted by love, and your endurance inspired by hope in our Lord Jesus Christ.” (NIV) [emphasis added]

This verse opens a letter written by the Apostle Paul to the church in Thessalonica, praising their efforts and patient hope in the return of Jesus. Various translations will use similar words or phrases such as “labor of love and patience of hope” (KJV), “work of faith”, “labor of love”, and “steadfastness of hope” (RSV), “faith in action”, “worked for love” and “persevered through hope” (Phillips). In every case, however, the points are the same. The members of that church demonstrated their faith through active service (ministry). Their labors must have been costly, for we all know that things done for love usually cost you something. Their endurance, which is active or ongoing, is also praised since it is based in hope. It can be reduced to faith, hope and love.

What makes a successful employee from a management perspective? Three points generally: (1) the individual is a hard worker, (2) he or she loves the job, and (3) they are motivated to endure hardships for the company. These three points will typically assure success in any company. Paul's praise for the Thessalonians recognizes that these people were good Christians or ‘employees of the kingdom’. They had demonstrated the three points listed above.

Many of us would easily qualify for the title of good employee in a worldly environment, but how about in the Kingdom of God? Perform your own employee evaluation today. Are you a hard worker for God because you recognize the free gift of salvation that He has given? Do you love being a Christian, i.e. having a relationship with the risen Savior? Does your faith and knowledge urge you on to seek more opportunities to serve God and His people? Is your Christianity a labor of love? Is it sometimes costly, using your time talents and treasures? Yet, in spite of these ‘hardships’, are you willing to endure people, situations and problems knowing that, in the long run, the rewards will far outweigh any little inconvenience (1 Peter 1: 6 - 7)?

Take an eternal perspective on your work and ministry life starting right now. Recognize that the same skills God gave you that you have applied to the world can and should be applied to His Kingdom as well.