A pat on the back

In Luke 17:7-10, Jesus said, “But which of you, having a servant plowing or feeding cattle, will say unto him by and by, when he is come from the field, Go and sit down to meat? And will not rather say unto him, Make ready wherewith I may sup, and gird thyself, and serve me, till I have eaten and drunken; and afterward thou shalt eat and drink? Doth he thank that servant because he did the things that were commanded him? I trow not. So likewise ye, when ye shall have done all those things which are commanded you, say, We are unprofitable servants: we have done that which was our duty to do.”

Everyone loves a pat on the back. In fact, humans blossom with affirmation and appreciation. Nevertheless, an important question to be asked is, “Is being appreciated a right?” Every child of God takes on the responsibility of a servant when they are saved. Whatever you do secretly as a servant of God, you will be rewarded (Matthew 6:1-4). Jesus is not demeaning servants in Luke 17, but through this parable He is emphasizing the proper servant attitude.

If we always are seeking the reward of men, the “pat on the back,” it can make us take our eyes off of pleasing God and try to please men (John 5:44; Galatians 1:10). If you have done something wonderful for the cause of brethren, your brethren (including myself) may not have given you the praise you deserve, and for that we are sorry. However, you will be one day rewarded (Hebrews 6:9-12). Keep your eyes on the right goal and you will always have the proper attitude of a servant.

Kyle Campbell