An Excellent Strategy

“Whatever you do, do it with excellence to the glory of God, and do it strategically for the mission of God.” – J.D. Greear

Being a believer in Jesus changes how I view work. Work isn’t about profit, although profit is nice. Work isn’t about approval, although I like to hear that I’m doing a good job from time to time. Work isn’t a burden, although some days—like today when it’s gloomy—it’s hard.

Work is a privilege. It aims vertically and horizontally. It ministers to God first, then to other believers and the world.

Work is a blessing. God has given me certain skills and talents. In response to his good gifts, I use them to bless him and others. Work becomes a spiritual act of worship.

At least it does when my priorities are right, and I’m rooted in my identity in Christ. When that’s right, everything falls into place. I’m not saying it’s easy or without challenges; I’m saying there’s a sense of rightness in spite of the obstacles. I’m doing what God created me to do. I’m living out his dream instead of my own.

When I reside in that place, excellence arises. It’s a byproduct of pursuing and becoming more like Christ. I can’t help but work with excellence. It flows from a heart that desires to bring glory to God instead of self.

Strategically, though…I’m not certain I’ve figured out that piece. I think my personal writing is a way to be strategic with my work. I know when I write about faith and work and art and how those things mix together that I am content. It feels right. However, I think my work needs to aim beyond that. I don’t know what that looks like, but I look forward to seeing how God uses Write Right and me in his mission.

Image: Markus Spiske (Creative Commons)