Why Hard Work Matters to God

Hey carpool crew, whether you're in the car packing up for a trip or helping clean up around the house, I'm Pastor Justin and I'm so glad you're here. Today's verse is from Colossians chapter three, verse 23. Here's what it says. Whatever you do, do it from the heart as something done for the Lord and not for people. This verse comes to us from the Book of Colossians, a letter written by the apostle Paul to a group of people in a city called Colossae. He wanted them to know that even everyday stuff like chores, jobs, and school can be a way to serve and honor God. See, back then people thought only big spiritual things mattered, like preaching sermons or going on missions trips. But Paul reminded them, everyday tasks big or small matter when we do it for Jesus. And speaking of big tasks, today is a big day for my family. We're moving. Yep. Loading boxes, lifting furniture, sorting through all the Legos, and trying not to lose the TV remote. It's a lot and it's not easy. My kids are working hard. My wife Brittany is a rockstar and my muscles, yeah, they're already sore and it's not even lunchtime, but here's the thing, moving is hard work, and that's okay. The Bible doesn't say hard work is bad. It actually says the opposite, that work is something God gave us on purpose. If Jesus was helping me pack up today, I'd think he'd look at me and smile and say something like, keep going. You're not just moving boxes, you're making space for something new. Every little bit of effort, every time you help your family matters to me. Now, I think he'd say that to me, but he'd also say something just like that to you, because hard work, it isn't just about moving. Maybe you're cleaning up your toys, helping wash the car, carrying groceries, or getting your room ready for bed. Even when it feels tiring or boring, God sees your effort, and when you do it with a good attitude like you're working for Jesus, it actually honors him. So today, whatever job you have, big or small, remember Colossians 3:23. Work hard. Do your best and do it from your heart as if Jesus himself asked you to. Remember, no matter where you are or how you're listening, God loves you. Parents, if you love today's podcast, snap a photo and post it on Instagram. Tag us at carpooling with Jesus. We'd love to celebrate with you. Before you go answer this question together, what's one thing you worked on recently that was really hard and how did it bring honor to God? I'll see you next week on carpooling with Jesus.