Finding The Right Motivation
Colossians 3:23-24
What motivates you in your work? Is it merely the paycheck you receive? Is it the pursuit of something more in life…material possessions? Maybe it’s nobler than that, perhaps a better future for your children.
I guess none of these in and of themselves are wrong or bad. However, when they are our sole motivation they can lead to great resentment which leads to disappointment when things don’t go the way we think they should. But when our motivation comes from the proper place, disciplined appropriately it can bring great satisfaction and success regardless of the production of our work good or bad.
The Apostle Paul wrote in his letter to the church of Colossae this instruction “Whatever you do, do your work heartily, as to the Lord rather than men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance. It is the Lord Christ whom you serve.”
This passage gives us several axioms of truth enabling the ability to find joy in your life, motivation for life, and so on.
Notice first the importance of your work: “Whatever you do…” this is a great equalizing statement.. it brings great equality and importance to all conditions.
Notice second how you are to perform your work: “Do your work Heartily”
Thirdly who you are working for: “As to the Lord” Vs 24 “it is the Lord Christ you serve”
Fourth your true paycheck: “You will receive the reward of your inheritance.”
When these principles become the driving force or motivation for our work and life, whatever it is we then can discipline ourselves with daily regimens that help us achieve those more earthly and personal goals of success, accomplishment, material gain.
Four such disciplines come to mind:
- Energetic
- Enthusiasm
- Commitment
- Excellence
Supposing that we can be honest with ourselves, here’s a little test. Put these disciplines in question form and ask them of yourselves.
- How is my energy level when it comes to my work and life?
- How is my enthusiasm for my work and life?
- How is my commitment level?
- Am I producing to my highest ability?
Often times the daily grind of work, the daily issues that we deal with, the constant bombardment of people with attitudes, the list of negatives goes on and on, the daily noise of these can rob our joy and steal our focus.
It is imperative to remember:
Your work matters to God, whatever you do!
Your work is to be done heartily!
Your work is for Christ alone!
Your work will not go unpaid!