We’ve discovered in studying 1st Thessalonians 4:11 that God wants us to quietly be involved in selfless industry. If you do, verse 12 says, “you will not be dependent on anybody.” These instructions will not make you a loaner. Rather, you are called to be responsible vocationally. If you’re responsible vocationally you won’t have time to be a busybody, nor be dependent on others. You’ll make a positive contribution, but you’ll do so quietly, not trying to get attention or recognition.
If you go about your daily work in this way “your daily life may win the respect of outsiders,” that is, the unbelieving onlooker. He might be an understudy who needs to learn from you. He might be someone at your side on the production line who depends on you to do your part in order for him to do his part. Or he might be your supervisor.
Faithful, selfless industry on your part will win their respect. It might very well open the door for you to share with them what is most important to you, your relationship with your Savior and Lord. That’s what it means to be sanctified vocationally. That’s what’s involved in living to please God.
How are you doing in this area of your life? Do a reality check! If you’re doing OK – do even better, Paul says in verse 1. If you’re not doing well, then check out verses 9-10. We’ll look at them in our next visit.