God and a Good Job

Chariots of Fire is a movie that tells the story of a missionary-turned-track star named Eric Liddle. In the movie, Eric’s sister scolds him for neglecting missions work in order to run in the Olympics. Eric tells his sister, “…when I run, I feel (God’s) pleasure.” The track star senses that doing something well honors God.

That is a beautiful depiction of how God views the work of God’s people. Though we sometimes dread Monday mornings, our trade/craft/professional life can be a way we experience God. God is honored when we do things well for God's glory.

In Colossians, the Apostle Paul suggests that all work is ultimately done for God. The Apostle writes, “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters,” (Colossians 3:23). Work is a means for honoring God, not people. When we gain experience and do something well, we may indeed sense God’s presence and feel God’s pleasure in the process.

As you go through the coming week, look for opportunities to do something well. As you excel in your trade or craft, pay attention to the spiritual life. God is with you. God is empowering you. God delights in the skills, gifts and abilities God gave you. Working for God's glory, may help you experience that God is pleased with a job well done.