We memorized verse 23 in preschool choir last year, and now I can't read it without yelling the word "ENTHUSIASTICALLY!" Paul wraps up the theme from the previous verses; no matter what our role in life we are to do it to the best of our ability and to the glory of God.
This does not mean we are to do everything. "I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength" is not a promise that you can perfectly juggle every ball thrown at you - home, work, church, etc. It does not mean that you will be able to make everyone happy. It does not mean that you will never disappoint anyone. Instead it is a promise that He will give you strength for each day to accomplish what you are supposed to accomplish. Many times when we are exhausted, it is because we are doing too many things that He has not called us to do. (Pointing fingers back at myself.)
Look not to the world for applause. Many jobs worth doing are thankless. What truly matters is not human acknowledgment but whether or not our hearts serve the Lord Christ. Do everything in love - whether cleaning toilets, relating to others at the office, or nurturing relationships with friends and family. Your reward is not financial or even of this earth. Your reward is hearing the words, "Well done my good and faithful servant" as you transition into life eternal. Remember who your real boss is!
No job in the body of Christ is better than any other. Some may be more glamorous, but there is no favoritism in Christ. Following James 2, we should view a homeless brother in Christ as highly as a wealthy congregant or preacher (sometimes more so - ahem). We know that God does not show favoritism between races or classes of people, although He does call some out for special purposes.
All who do evil will be equally punished. This may not ring true for some who see evildoers live lives of blessing on earth while many "good people" suffer. But all sin is punished. Even if someone "gets away" with wrongdoing on earth, the sin is punished in one of two ways. If the wrongdoer is a believer, his sins were taken and forgiven through the extreme punishment and death of Jesus. If the person is not a believer, his sins will be punished in the fires of Hell. I would say either option pays for any crime done on earth.
"Without love, everything is painful, everything is tiring, everything is burdensome. The Cross, taken up hesitantly, is crushing; taken smilingly, by free will, and with love, it will carry you much more than you carry it." - Fr. Jean C.J. d'Elbee
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