“ Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with your might; for there is no work or device or knowledge or wisdom in the grave where you are going.”- Ecclesiastes 9:10 (NKJV)
A brush is an essential tool used by a skilled painter to create something beautiful. The painter applies great focus and determination with that tool to achieve an excellent result. In the same way, our work is a brushstroke on the canvas of God’s greater purpose. Through it, we reflect His creativity, order, and excellence
Our anchor text makes a bold demand of us. It instructs us to do our work with vigour, passion, and total commitment. It calls us to step away from mediocrity and lukewarm effort and to instil intentionality in how we fulfil our responsibilities. Whatever our hands find to do, whether in a secular job or building businesses, we are required to do it wholeheartedly. This means taking responsibility for our careers and continuously improving our craft.
God is equally glorified when we work with excellence and sincerity of heart. Our work becomes an altar of worship when it is offered with dedication and integrity. In other words, we must pursue our professions with excellence because it matters to God.
Throughout Scripture, God honoured those who approached their tasks with dedication and skill. For example, Bezalel was empowered by the Spirit of God to design the tabernacle with artistic excellence (Exodus 31:1-5). Daniel distinguished himself through supernatural wisdom and integrity (Daniel 6:3–4). Joseph rose to leadership in Egypt through his faithfulness and diligence (Genesis 39:2–6, 41:37–44).
The latter part of Ecclesiastes 9:10 adds a sobering tone: “For there is no work or thought or knowledge or wisdom in Sheol, to which you are going.” This emphasises the brevity of life. Our opportunity to act is now. After this life, there will be no more work to be done, at least not in the same temporary, decision-filled way.
This is the time to work excellently and serve passionately. Time is a limited and precious resource, and we are called to steward it well. Let this be the mark of your life and labour: bold, competent, and zealous, not for the applause of men, but for the glory of God. As Apostle Paul instructs, we are to “make the best use of the time” (Ephesians 5:16).
Remember, we are called to embrace our work as an expression of worship. Whether in ministry or the marketplace, our labour is a sacred offering when done with excellence and intentionality. We must resist the urge to separate our profession from our purpose; instead, let our daily tasks reflect our divine calling. God is honoured not only in our prayers and songs but also in the systems we build, the services we provide, and the people we serve with integrity and love.
Embrace the desire to grow spiritually and skillfully. Let it show daily in your handiwork; let your life always point back to the One who called you.
Bible Reading Plan: 1 Chronicles 26-27; Luke 8:40-9:9