Recently I had a conversation with one of my students that went something like this…

Student: “So my math teacher wants me to finish and turn in this review packet even though I already took the test.”

Me: “Well you were supposed to do the packet before the test to study, weren’t you?”

Student: “Yeah, but it seems like a waste of time to do it now since the test is over.”

Me: “Are you getting a grade for the packet?”

Student: “Yes.”

Me: “Then don’t you want to turn it in so you don’t get a zero?”

Student: “My grade in math will still be fine without it.”

Me: “What about taking pride in your work or how it reflects on you and your work ethic? Even if you’ll be fine without it, doesn’t it matter that you put forth your best effort?”

Student: *shrugs* “I don’t really care what my math teacher thinks of me.”

I walked away from the conversation feeling frustrated. Apathy is not something I can understand or sympathize with.

When I was a kid I remember my dad saying, “if your name is on it, it should be your best work”, and that stuck with me. That and Colossians 3:23… Whatever you do, do your work heartily, as for the Lord rather than for men.

This verse is great motivation in reminding us to do our best in whatever we set our minds and hands to do, but there’s more to it than that.

It’s not just about avoiding apathy, it’s about the attitude of our hearts.

You see, I can do my best at something but still have a grumbling, complaining, bad attitude about it. And that’s not right.

Doing everything for the Lord goes beyond taking pride in your work or putting forth your best effort, as I tried to encourage my student to do. It means that our work is an act of service and praise to our Lord. It is a reflection of our love for Him.

Moms often fall prey to the trap of thinking that their work goes unnoticed. It’s easy to get caught up in mundane tasks and wonder if anyone recognizes all that you do. Don’t believe that lie! It is honorable work to raise our children, even in the messy or mundane moments.

So in those times when you feel weary or are wrestling with a negative attitude or even feel like your work is unnoticed, turn to Him. Remember that everything you do is for the Lord and be encouraged that He is right there with you.

Series: Encouragement for Moms

Read: Colossians 3:17-24

Remember: Colossians 3:23

Reflect: Is there a specific task or time when you find yourself less motivated or even having a negative attitude about the work before you? Try bringing this verse to mind on such occasions to remind yourself that the work you do is for the Lord