“Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men.” — Colossians 3:23 (ESV)
This is my favorite Bible verse! It has gotten me through many days that I did not want to get out of bed. It is not just about going to work (a job) but doing everything as unto God! Read the verse a view times-it is easy to memorize and will get you through many days when your mind and body are working against you.
In a world driven by performance reviews, social media likes, and external validation, Colossians 3:23 offers a radical reframe: work is worship. The Apostle Paul penned this verse to the early Christians in Colossae, urging them to approach every task—whether in the marketplace, the home, or the church—with wholehearted devotion, not to impress others, but to honor God.
The Heart Behind the Work
The Greek phrase “ek psyches,” translated as “heartily,” implies doing something from the soul—with passion, sincerity, and full engagement. Paul wasn’t just talking about religious duties. He meant everything: sweeping floors, writing reports, caring for children, leading meetings. When we work with this mindset, our labor becomes infused with purpose and dignity.
A Higher Motivation
This verse doesn’t dismiss human authority or responsibility. Instead, it elevates our motivation. Whether you’re an employee, student, artist, or entrepreneur, Colossians 3:23 invites you to see your work as service to the Lord. That shift transforms routine into reverence. You’re not just meeting deadlines—you’re building something eternal.
Transforming the Everyday
Imagine approaching your daily grind with the mindset that God is your ultimate boss. It changes how you handle frustration, how you treat coworkers, and how you respond to setbacks. You begin to ask: Am I doing this with integrity? Am I giving my best, even when no one’s watching? That’s the heart of Colossians 3:23.
Practical Takeaways
- Start your day with intention: Pray over your tasks and ask God to guide your efforts.
- Seek excellence, not perfection: Give your best, knowing that God values faithfulness over flawless execution.
- Honor others through your work: Even when serving people, remember you’re ultimately serving God.
- Find joy in the process: When your work is for the Lord, even the mundane can become meaningful.
Colossians 3:23 isn’t just a verse—it’s a lifestyle. It calls us to live with purpose, to labor with love, and to see every moment as an opportunity to glorify God. Whether you’re filing papers or preaching sermons, your work matters. So do it heartily, as for the Lord.