Living In The Light

May 22, We Serve A Different Master

Not lagging in diligence, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord.
—Romans 12:11 LL 152.1

In every business transaction Christians will be just what they want their brethren to think they are. Their course of action is guided by underlying principles. They do not scheme; therefore, they have nothing to conceal, nothing to gloss over. They may be criticized, they may be tested, but their unbending integrity will shine forth like pure gold. They are a blessing to all connected with them, for their word is trustworthy. He or she is a person who will not take an advantage of their neighbor. They are a friend and benefactor to all, and their fellow human beings put confidence in their counsel. . . . A truly honest person will never take advantage of weakness or incompetency in order to fill his own purse. He accepts a fair equivalent for that which he sells. If there are defects in the articles sold, he frankly tells his brother or his neighbor, although by so doing he may work against his own pecuniary interests. LL 152.2

In all the details of life the strictest principles of honesty are to be maintained. These are not the principles which govern our world, for Satan—deceiver, liar, and oppressor—is the master, and his subjects follow him and carry out his purposes. But Christians serve under a different Master, and their actions must be wrought in God, irrespective of all selfish gain. Deviation from perfect fairness in business deals may appear as a small thing in the estimation of some, but our Savior did not thus regard it. His words on this point are plain and explicit: “He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much” (Luke 16:10). . . . In the Christian world today fraud is practiced to a fearful extent. God’s commandment-keeping people should show that they are above all these things. The dishonest practices which mar the dealing of people with their fellow human beings should never be practiced by one who professes to be a believer in present truth. God’s people do great harm to the truth by the least departure from integrity. LL 152.3

A person may not have a pleasant exterior, they may be deficient in many respects, but if they have a reputation for straightforward honesty, they will be respected. Stern integrity covers many objectionable traits of character. A person who steadfastly adheres to truth will win the confidence of all.—Letter 3, 1878. LL 152.4

Further Reflection: : Do your business dealings reflect the character of the One you serve? LL 152.5