Why do you do what you do?
It’s a simple question, but one that reveals a lot about the heart behind our work. Whether you’re at a nine-to-five, raising kids, studying, serving, or building something new, the motive behind your effort matters just as much as the work itself.
In a world that measures success by titles, numbers, and recognition, it’s easy to forget that God measures differently. He’s not impressed by the size of the stone we carry — He looks at the heart that carries it.
Jesus told a story about a master who entrusted three servants with different amounts of money — one received five talents, another two, and another one. Each was given according to their ability, not according to what they thought they deserved. When the master returned, the first two had multiplied what they’d been given. The third buried his and returned it unused. The master’s response was telling:
“Well done, good and faithful servant… You have been faithful over a little; I will set you over much.”
God’s approval wasn’t based on who made the most — it was based on faithfulness.
Faithfulness means showing up even when no one notices. It means working with integrity when no one’s watching. It means trusting God’s provision even when success looks different than you imagined.
Sometimes, God’s plan doesn’t follow our expectations. We picture a straight path to promotion or stability, but God calls us to dependence — to seek daily bread, not lifetime guarantees. He teaches us that provision isn’t always about what we earn, but about learning to trust the One who provides.
The truth is, everything we have — our time, our strength, our opportunities — has been entrusted to us. It’s not ours to keep, it’s ours to steward. When we begin to see our work that way, frustration turns into gratitude, and striving turns into worship.
God doesn’t ask for perfection; He asks for obedience.
He doesn’t demand success; He desires faithfulness.
Because faithfulness in small things is what prepares us for greater ones.
Whether you’re leading a company or cleaning a kitchen, mentoring a team or teaching your kids, God sees every act done with a sincere heart. What matters most isn’t what you produce, but who you’re doing it for.
So work well. Work honestly. Work faithfully.
And when you’ve done all you can, leave the results to God.
🙌 Call to Action
This week, take time to ask:
“Who am I working for — the crowd or Christ?”
Offer your work, your plans, and your energy to God.
Do it not for recognition or reward, but for the Audience of One — because His approval is the only one that lasts.
By Paul Hanash