When I was thirteen, I worked for my dad’s landscaping company during the summer months. Let’s just say I wasn’t a very motivated teenager. I was lazy, actually.
One day, my dad caught me sitting on a bucket, watching the other guys work. He had already told me several times to pick up the pace. Well, I didn’t get the message until the switch caught the back of my leg. That sent the message loud and clear.
Looking back, I’m thankful my dad had the courage to teach me through loving discipline not to be lazy. I needed to learn to work and work hard. What I didn’t realize at the time was that he was teaching me a godly principle about giving life my best and doing it for a greater purpose.
The Bible says, “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.” (Colossians 3:23) This verse reminds us that our work, no matter how mundane, can be an act of worship when done with the right heart.
If you’re struggling with laziness, you’re not alone. We’ve all been there. But we don’t have to stay there. Laziness doesn’t have to define us. It’s possible to move forward and live with purpose.
Here are three ways to give life your best:
1. Allow God to be your motivation. You might not like what you’re doing. Most people don’t enjoy every task. But that doesn’t mean you can’t do it for the Lord. You can honor Him even through the most mundane responsibilities. Let Him be your purpose and reason to give your best effort.
2. Look for opportunities to serve. Let’s be honest, serving is often inconvenient. It takes time and energy, and it’s easy to make excuses to avoid it. But here’s the secret: you will be happier, more fulfilled, and more successful the more you serve. Serving others reflects God’s heart and helps you grow in character.
3. Lead by example. Take a moment to evaluate yourself. Do you often take the easy and lazy road? If so, is that the kind of example you want to set for your family, friends, or coworkers? If not, it’s time to make a change. Start showing others what it looks like to work hard and honor God through your efforts.
All of us have been caught sitting on a bucket, watching everyone else work. But we don’t have to stay there. Give your best and do it for His glory.
Talk it Over:
- How can you start looking at your work as a way to honor God?
- Are you leading by example, or do you tend to wait for others to take the lead? Consider one area where you can step up and demonstrate diligence and commitment.
With God’s help, you can overcome laziness and live a life that reflects His purpose and glory.
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