Marie’s daily verse: 

6 Now, godliness with contentment is great gain. 7 For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. 8 And having food and clothing, with these we shall be content. 9 But those who desire to be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and harmful lusts which drown men in destruction and perdition. 10 For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil, for which some have strayed from the faith in their greediness and pierced themselves through with many sorrows (1 Timothy 6:6-10). 

DAILY DEVOTION, September 7, 2023

“Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ.” (Colossians 3:23-24 ESV).

Paul didn’t say, “Work heartily until the job becomes boring or uncomfortable. Then complain about how much you don’t like what you are doing and give up.” No! Paul reminded the believers to use the abilities and talents God gave them, both in exciting and everyday situations, to glorify God. As Christians, our goal is never to receive praise from men. When human praise or criticism comes, we can take it or leave it. Temptation comes when life gets boring, or we are never recognized or praised (or thanked) by others for our work or accomplishments.

Paul says it doesn’t matter what you do.  Every job is a Christian job. We work to serve the Lord. You don’t work for Walmart or the Warsaw School District, etc. You work hard and do your best because you are working for God. Those who serve the Lord Jesus in whatever they do will receive a reward. You may think Richard is serving God as a minister. The truth is that we are all serving God. You are no less a servant of God than I am.

Father, help me to remember that I work for You, not for men. May all I do be done heartily since it is all for You. In Jesus’ name, I pray, amen.