Topic: Why Are Instructions in Church Taken as Commands, While at Work They're Considered Normal?

Have you ever noticed this?

Your manager at work says, "Be at the office by 8 a.m."
You don't get offended. You adjust your schedule and make sure you're there.

Your supervisor says, "Submit this report before the close of business."
You don't call it control. You simply do it because you understand that's how organizations function. But let that same level of instruction come in church.

Your pastor says, "Please attend the workers' meeting."
Your choir HOD says, "Be at rehearsal by 5 p.m."
Or your department leader says, "Everyone should participate in this assignment."
Suddenly, some people feel they are being controlled or commanded.

The question is... why?
Could it be that we've placed a higher value on our jobs than on our service to God?
The reality is this: every organization thrives on order, structure, and accountability. The church is no different. In fact, the church should be the first place where we willingly embrace discipline because our service is ultimately unto God. Now, let's be clear. This is not an excuse for leaders to become harsh or authoritarian. Godly leadership should always be marked by humility, love, and wisdom. But as members, we must also understand that genuine instructions are given to promote excellence, unity, and growth—not to control people.

The Bible says in Hebrews 13:17 that we should obey our leaders because they watch over our souls and will give an account to God. So the next time you're given an instruction in church, ask yourself this simple question: "If my boss at work gave me this same instruction, would I react the same way?" If the answer is no, then maybe the issue isn't the instruction. Maybe it's our perspective.

Let's serve God with the same commitment, punctuality, and excellence we give to our workplaces—and even more.
Because at the end of the day, we're not just serving a pastor, a choir leader, or a department.
We're serving God.

I'm Tolu Desmond
God bless you