You’d Be Surprised

Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with your might.

Ecclesiastes 9:10

A humorous sermon illustration gives an example of the wrong attitude toward work:

Manager: “I’m sorry I can’t hire you, but there isn’t enough work to keep you busy.”

Applicant: “You’d be surprised how little it takes.”^a

This is clearly an exaggeration in order to make a point, but some people truly have this mentality toward work. They don’t take pride in the performance of their responsibilities; rather, they take pride in their professions. According to the Bible, however, this is backward thinking. Even servants should do their best, not caring about their lowly positions but working with integrity for their real Master, who is God (Colossians 3:23).

It is difficult not to get caught up in the pursuit of power and position. After all, in the eyes of the world, these are highly prized and sought-after treasures. But when we lock eyes with Jesus and turn a deaf ear to the praises of men, the only thing that truly matters is doing everything with the motivation of pleasing and honoring Him. It is from God that the gift of work comes, so it is to Him that our efforts should be aimed.

Do everything in its own time. Do everything in earnest; if it is worth doing, then do it with all your might.

ROBERT MURRAY M’CHEYNE