“And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him” (Colossians 3:17)

I have always found incredible satisfaction in working. I started delivering papers when I was around twelve years old and have worked since. What motivates me is giving myself, my skill and my talent wholeheartedly in the pursuit of being a part of something great. I have been the happiest in my career when my values align with my job resulting in a sweet spot of purpose. 

Amazingly, this is what we are called to. God delights in seeing us operate in the way He’s created us. He’s created us with financial minds, hearts for teaching children, aptitude for police work, the list goes on and on. Because of this we can serve the Lord in whatever station of life we are in. Just remember that whatever you do, you can do it for the Lord. Not only did He create you with certain natural abilities and skills but He is the one who will equip you for the job at hand.

Here’s the beautiful truth in all of this—It is Christ you are serving.“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving” (Colossians 3:23-24). So if you wait tables, you can serve Christ. If you punch numbers, you can serve Christ. If you change diapers, you can serve Christ… Just keep the perspective that whatever you do, “do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him” 

Whatever You Do—Be Thankful!

Paul has been giving short succinct instructions to help believers live holy lives. He gives three quick and powerful verses ending each one with a reminder to be thankful...

• Let the peace of Christ rule and be thankful (vs. 15).
• Let the word of Christ richly dwell with gratitude in your hearts to God (vs. 16).
• Whatever you do, do it for God and be thankful (vs. 17).

What an amazing truth! We can live holy lives, pleasing the Lord in all things by simply by living full of gratitude knowing that our entire lives serve Him. This should help us have the right perspective each and every day. 

Let’s Have a Conversation...

Truth—You do not have to be a pastor or a missionary to serve and minister to the Lord. How does this truth help you refocus your day while at work, play or when you are with your family?