And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men;
Colossians 3:23
I’m in a season of learning that character is what sustains excellence. We may not be receiving the recognition we feel our work output deserves, but we are called to work with all our heart “as to the Lord, and not unto men” (Colossians 3:23). In other words, for the Christian excellence is a way of life because our permanent boss is God.
I’ve needed this reminder, as recently my work output was not rewarded in the way that I hoped it would be. However, God has been reminding me that I work for Him, so even in the midst of the disappointment, I have a duty to do all things well.
And were beyond measure astonished, saying, He hath done all things well: he maketh both the deaf to hear, and the dumb to speak.
Mark 7:37 (KJV)
As I pondered this, I recalled the passage where the people marvelled at all the miracles of Jesus. One of the comments made about Jesus was that “He hath done all things well” (Mark 7:37). However, we know that Jesus didn’t receive praise from everyone that met Him – in fact, some made it their mission to kill Him. Nevertheless, at all times Jesus did all things well, and it was obvious to all. Why? Because Jesus saw it as His mission to carry out the works of His Father, who sent Him – and His ability to do this was His measure of success (John 9:4).
And he said unto them, How is it that ye sought me? wist ye not that I must be about my Father’s business?
Luke 2:49 (KJV)
I don’t think it’s by chance that Jesus called doing the work of the Father a “business”. Sometimes I ask myself if I was the only person responsible for the Father’s business, how would it be operating? Would it be a thriving business, or would it be operating at a loss? It’s a reminder to-self that I must work with all my heart “as to the Lord“, at all times.
The Kingdom is a business. Not in the sense that God needs our money, but He needs our effort to fulfil His purposes on earth as it is in heaven.
The Kingdom is a business. Not in the sense that God needs our money, but He needs our effort to fulfil His purposes on earth as it is in heaven. Therefore, whatever we are doing is an opportunity to propel the Kingdom business. Irrespective of whether you feel you deserve a higher pay right now, or your employer is not giving you the credit you deserve, keep working with all your heart “as to the Lord”.
Remember, the Bible says “Seest thou a man diligent in his business? He shall stand before kings; he shall not stand before men of low estate” (Proverbs 22:9). This is a promise. The Lord also says that He will lift up the humble (James 4:10). So don’t stop working with excellence due to a lack of human praise – we are working for the Lord and He will promote you in due time.
And Pharaoh said to him, “I am Pharaoh, but no one will lift a hand or foot in the entire land of Egypt without your approval.”
Genesis 41:44 (NLT)
A season where you feel unrecognised is an opportunity to develop character, which is priceless. Character is what allows you to stand before kings, not ordinary people (Proverbs 22:29). Look at the life of Joseph – tested, tried and unrecognised for a season, yet he rose above it and found himself standing before a king.
Don’t be discouraged. Keep doing all things well. You are working for the Lord and His reward is eternal.
Further reading
Redefining Success 
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