Devotional - August 12, 2026
Scripture: Colossians 3: 23 Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men.
We've all been told, you get out what you put into something. And, we can all attest its validity, because it is true. If we work hard at something, with all our heart, we will experience positive results. There will be some progress, be it a project that entails manual labor, or an academic endeavor, or even a relationship. The results may not be what we want, but we will know a lot more than when we started. The knowledge that we glean will continue to drive and guide our efforts as we proceed. The Christians in the church at Colossae were having trouble with their employers due to their faith. The negative treatment they received affected how they worked and Paul is trying to encourage them. Afterall, their work was a reflection of their faith. We may separate the two, work and faith, but onlookers look at it as one package. I heard a lady the other day talking about her early years when she worked at an ice-cream shop. When filling an ice cream cone with ice cream, she could use one of two techniques. Both techniques, in the end, looked like a full ice cream cone made to order. But, one was hollow inside and the other was solid. If she liked the person and they were nice to her, they got the latter, everyone else the former. My guess is her account of serving ice cream is a metaphor for her treatment of others in general. And, I would bet there are many who act likewise. It's hard to stay positive when life is not going well. Paul reminds the church-goers to remember there is Another in their life that always gives them the support and strength they need to live a good life. When they worked, Paul encouraged them to let their work reflect their devotion to God in all they did and let it be done wholeheartedly. Let the joy of their (our) salvation in Christ encourage them in all their work (Psalms 51: 12). Our work is a testimony that reflects who we are in Christ. But also know, God loves and supports us wholeheartedly in return (John 3:16, 1 Peter 5:7, Matthew 28:20).
Pray with me..., Holy God, grant us the healing and strength we need to work wholeheartedly for You and others. May our efforts be reflective of our love and desire to be Your people in this place. Lord, hear us as we pray for our loved ones. We ask that You would bless them according to their needs. Lord, we ask Your blessing upon our church, so we can be the people You call us to be, in Jesus name, Amen.
God's peace,
Pastor Brian
