This is the time of year when evaluations are completed regarding those who have served in various capacities. Various companies often make “private evaluations” of their employees, and simply note those matters in their files. Others summon the employees to a conference setting where they must discuss with the employer their work ethics and face critical evaluation of their service. While Christians are evaluated “secretly” (Matthew 5:14 – 16; Hebrews 4:12 - 13) we should not fear being evaluated personally and critically (1 Peter 3:15).
Several years ago, while working in a Chevrolet parts department, my immediate boss and his superior had to evaluate me regarding my work ethic and loyalty to the company, before deciding who would be the “assistant manager” of that department. Since I had trained everyone in that department except the manager, it appeared to be an easy decision – in my mind! (That proved to be a mistake!) The boss gave me a glowing evaluation, but I didn’t get the position. Why? His answer astounded me. He said, “The only objection we have is you don’t come to the shop parties.” Really? Yes, because I didn’t attend what amounted to a “beer fest” with other sordid activities, I lost an increase in pay, a furnished vehicle, and the position.
There’s a “rest of the story” to that scenario. My immediate boss, the parts department manager, remained a good friend until his death. In fact, he and others purchased a different dealership and when I had some car repairs done there, I visited with Bob, and he offered me a job! I still have a letter he sent me years after his retirement in which he complimented me and thanked me profusely for working for him!
I muse about such events. Christians don’t do what they do for the praise or glory of men (Proverbs 27:2; John 12:43; 1 Peter 5:5; et al). It should be enough that all that we say or do is done for the glory of God (1 Corinthians 10:31). We have the responsibility of serving God to the BEST of our abilities! And when it is evaluation time, either now (2 Corinthians 13:5) or later (2 Corinthians 5:10), the Lord can say of us, “Well done thou good and faithful servant.” (Matthew 25: 21, 23).