Do the Job Right: Why Halfway Isn’t God’s Way
Real-Life Story: A friend of mine from Haiti named Abdias didn’t have a fancy education—just basic schooling and some data entry skills. But what he did have was something more powerful: a mindset shaped by his father, a local pastor, who taught him to always work “as unto the Lord.” Abdias took that to heart. Whether he was helping customers or staying late to assist coworkers, he consistently went above and beyond.
Because of this, he stood out. Promotions came quickly. New job offers followed. One day, he was offered a position at a clinic that would eventually become the Nobel Prize–winning AIDS research center in Port-au-Prince, Haiti. When the clinic needed a new director of IT, they chose Abdias—not because he had the most technical skills, but because his work ethic and attitude were unmatched. They even sent him overseas for specialized training. Why? Because he had proven himself trustworthy, diligent, and faithful in the small things. Good ethics in the workplace pays off.
Devotion:
We live in a world that often rewards speed over substance. But God sees things differently. His Word teaches us to work with excellence, even when no one is watching.
“And whatever you do, do it heartily, as for the Lord and not for men.” – Colossians 3:23 (MEV)
Abdias didn’t just “do his job.” He did it with all his heart. And God honored that. When we do our work well—on time, with integrity, and with care—we reflect the character of God. Sloppy work is not a small issue; it speaks to our values and to whom we believe we ultimately answer.
The Bible is blunt about the dangers of poor work habits:
“He also who is slothful in his work is brother to him who is a great destroyer.” – Proverbs 18:9 (MEV)
Halfway effort leads to broken systems, lost trust, and missed opportunities. But a diligent spirit—one that helps coworkers, solves problems, and finishes strong—leads to favor. Just like it did for Abdias.
Jesus Set the Standard
Jesus spent years working as a carpenter before His public ministry. Do you think He delivered wobbly chairs or uneven tables? No. Everything He did reflected the perfection of His character. Even His first miracle—turning water into wine—was done with excellence. The master of the feast said:
“Every man at the beginning sets out the good wine… but you have kept the good wine until now.” – John 2:10 (MEV)
Jesus never cut corners. And if He didn’t, neither should we. When we work hard—even at tasks that seem small—we’re living out our faith in real, tangible ways.
“Do not be lazy in diligence. Be fervent in spirit. Serve the Lord.” – Romans 12:11 (MEV)
Final Thought:
Abdias didn’t have the best résumé, but he had the best attitude. That made all the difference. God is not looking for perfect skill—He’s looking for willing hearts, people who are faithful in what they’ve been given. And when you work like that, He will open doors no résumé ever could.
Reflection Questions:
- What does it look like for you to work “as unto the Lord” this week?
- Have you been cutting corners in any area of your life or work?
- Who could benefit from you going the extra mile today—like Abdias did?
Prayer:
Lord, give me the heart of a servant and the diligence of someone who knows they are working for You—not for human praise. Help me to reflect You in everything I do, big or small. Amen.