Secular and Sacred

Bible Reading: Colossians 3:17–24

 

There is much discussion today about the difference between the sacred and the secular. Many people think that worship, prayer, Bible reading, and church activities are sacred, while our work, business, cooking, studying, driving, cleaning, or caring for our families are merely secular. The Bible, however, presents a very different picture.

 

For the follower of Christ, all of life is sacred.  No part of life lies outside God's presence or His lordship. Every moment belongs to Him because He created us, redeemed us, and dwells within us by His Spirit. Paul writes, "And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him” (Colossians 3:17).  “Therefore, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.” (1 Corinthians 10:31).  The Bible does not say ‘some things’ but says, ‘whatever we do.’ 

 

And there is a reason for this advice.  The Bible says, " …whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance; for you serve the Lord Christ" (Colossians 3:23-24).  For a believer, the Lord is our Master.  It is God who has given us the ability, knowledge, opportunity, and health to work, and we belong to God.  When we understand this, even the ordinary tasks of life become acts of worship because they are done for Christ.  

 

This truth should transform the way we live our lives! 

 

There is no ‘Sunday Christian.’ There is simply a disciple of Jesus who belongs to Him every moment. Our conversations, our relationships, our work ethic, and even our leisure should reflect Christ’s character. Worship continues in the kitchen, the classroom, the workplace, the marketplace, and the home.  Every decision, every task, and every opportunity becomes an offering of praise and an opportunity to glorify God.

 

My friend, the question is therefore not whether something is sacred or secular.  The question is, ‘When I do this or say this, will the Lord be glorified?’  The Christian life is not divided into compartments. Our whole life belongs to Christ, and every moment is an opportunity to glorify Him.

 

Prayer:  Lord Jesus, thank You for teaching me that all my life is sacred and belongs to God. Help me, Lord, to honour You through my work, my relationships, my decisions, and my daily responsibilities. Amen.

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