Laboring for the Lord with a consistent standard of excellence can present its challenges. After all, a busy schedule, fatigue, and boredom can tempt us to cut corners from time to time. The Word of God reminds us, however, that "The eyes of the Lord are in every place" (Proverbs 15:3, New King James Version). Although people may not always notice the extent of our labor, be assured that God always sees.

Do you serve God with a consistent standard of excellence?

Has a busy schedule, fatigue, or boredom caused you to give God "second best"?

For four grueling years, Michelangelo painted the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel while working on a hanging scaffold. Although the labor was demanding, Michelangelo maintained an increasing standard of excellence. In fact, he expanded the project from a simple depiction of the twelve apostles to include more than four hundred figures, and nine scenes from the book of Genesis. When asked why he was working so hard on a dark corner of the chapel that no one would ever see, Michelangelo replied, "God will see."

Like Michelangelo, our work for the Lord might entail several grueling years and aspects that other people will never see — but be reminded of Colossians 3:23-24:

“Whatever may be your task, work at it heartily from the soul, something done for the Lord and not for men, knowing with all certainty that it is from the Lord [and not from men] that you will receive the inheritance which is your real reward" (Amplified Bible).

Find motivation in knowing that nothing we do for God goes unnoticed. When we give our best in the dark and seemingly unnoticed corners of our lives, He sees it all.

Written by: Marsha DuCille - Publisher/Editorial Director
publisher @ calledmagazine.com