For His Glory, By His Grace

“Work willingly at whatever you do, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people.” Colossians 3:23

Some people thrive with a set routine and others are prone more towards spontaneity. Whichever category you fall into, we each have tasks that we enjoy and tasks we do not enjoy. Doing all of our never-ending daily chores, check lists and honey-do’s can be challenging, either way you prefer to complete them.

Some of us keep a tight schedule and do the cleaning, yard work, grocery shopping etc., all on their own specific days. Others choose to shop when it’s absolutely needed or clean when the mess becomes too much. Yet, tasks and to-do’s are always there waiting…

This verse, “Work willingly at whatever you do, as though you were working for the Lord…” found in Colossians (3:23), is one that has been coming to mind for a while now during my daily routines.

As I think about this verse, I am gently reminded that our loving Savior is always watching. He is forever present. I believe it is his desire for us to go throughout our day, tackling each task, responsibility and even unexpected interruptions with joy, willingness and an attitude that says, “I’m going to work this task for the glory of the Lord.” To honor God with all we do.

What does that really mean? It means, to complete the task in front of you with a heart to please the Father; it means that out of your abundance of love for Him, you let your work pour out.

It is so easy to see life’s routine’s as mundane and insignificant. However, Jesus sees it as building our characters. He looks deep. He sees what is hidden from all others, into our heart. If we go about our daily duties with a heart to please the Lord and with his purposes in mind, even the interruptions will take on meaning. And on the other hand, when we grumble and complain… or sigh our way around the house or office, he sees that, too; and it produces fruit that is not for his glory.

1 Corinthians 10:31

“So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.”

If we know this is a way that the Lord intends for us to live, we know it is the best way for us to live. Yet, how are we to accomplish it? Simple. By His grace. We work, shop, cook, write, drive, serve, clean up messes, and mow the lawn “For His Glory, By His Grace”.

“For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people. It teaches us to say “No” to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age.” Titus 2:11-12

Grace is a gift. It is free and cannot be earned. God’s word tells us, “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and all are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.” (Romans 3:23-24).

Isn’t that wonderful news? We can do all things through Christ who gives us strength (Philippians 4:13). We are able to live our lives out for His glory, so that others will see his bright light in us, producing the fruit of the spirit, and we can do it by His wonderful, amazing grace that covers us completely.

Just recently, when I was seriously contemplating starting this blog, I needed to know if it was the direction the Lord was taking me. I prayed a simple prayer, and asked the Lord if he would give me a name for the blog (as a sign that I was to move forward with it). I began brainstorming a couple different ideas for names, and within just a few minutes, “For His Glory, By His Grace” rose right up to the tippy-top of my list. It was exactly what I had envisioned… and I loved it!

Life will always be messy, friends. There will always be something on our to-do list and there will always be interruptions. Let’s purpose to do everything…

Amen?!