I was thinking about my dad the other day; he passed away in 2006.  I was remembering some of the phrases and expressions he used.  One day he came to pick me up after football practice in high school.  He got there early and watched us practice for a pretty good while.  I guess he didn’t think I gave it my all that day because in the car on the way home, he began to talk to me about the importance of practicing hard so we can play hard.  He said to always give it your best when you are on the field – whether it is for practice or for a game.  Then he closed by saying, “If you’re going to be a bear…be a grizzly.”  That conversation with my dad trying to remind me to always do my best has stuck with me over the years.  I think that is what Paul was trying to tell the church in Colossians 3:23 -24.  Paul writes:

Colossians 3:23 Whatever you do, do your work heartily, as for the Lord rather than for men, 24 knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance. It is the Lord Christ whom you serve.

I love that verse!  Our heavenly Father wants us to do our best in whatever role, whatever relationship, whatever job or task we find ourselves involved in.  We are to give it our best.  We should always walk and talk, work and serve and practice and play in a manner that brings honor and glory to the Lord.  It’s only right that we should give our best for the One who gave His life for us.  Still, I know that trying hard and giving it our best is not always easy.  But I also know that whatever the Lord asks us to do, He will help us to do.  The Lord will equip you and empower you to do all that you need to do today.  After all, ultimately, you’re doing it for Him.