Wholehearted in the Midst of Challenge

Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, 

as working for the Lord, 

not for human masters.” 

Colossians 3:23

There are seasons in life when we find ourselves facing resistance, discouragement, or simply the grind of unseen work. Whether we are rebuilding broken relationships, laboring in a difficult job, engaging in quiet acts of love, or persevering in prayer for things yet unseen, the temptation is always present: do just enough. Survive. Settle. Retreat.

But Scripture calls us to more: work at it with all your heart. Not for praise or recognition, but for the Lord. God doesn’t merely ask for competence—He desires wholeheartedness. Why? Because wholehearted living reflects the image of a God who gives fully, who holds nothing back, who pursued us to the cross and beyond.

As Walter Brueggemann reminds us, “Faith is not simply a matter of correct ideas; it is a matter of energy and passion and risk that trusts God’s promises enough to act in bold ways.” Following Jesus means living boldly—especially in places of pain, uncertainty, and delay.

Patrick D. Miller puts it this way: “Prayer is not escape. It is engagement—the engagement of God’s will with the world’s wounds.” Even when we feel our work or prayers are small or hidden, they become vessels of divine purpose when offered in trust. No effort done for God is ever wasted.

Eugene Peterson captures the spirit of perseverance beautifully: “Perseverance is not the result of our determination. It is the result of God’s faithfulness.” We keep going—not because we are strong, but because God is with us and He is faithful.

So today, whether you are confronting opposition, rebuilding what has been broken, or simply trying to keep going—do it wholeheartedly. Not because it’s easy, but because it’s sacred. Because God is in it.

Prayer

Lord, help me to be wholehearted in all I do—not for applause or ease, but for Your glory. Teach me to persevere in prayer, service, and love. Give me the courage to rebuild where things are broken, to confront injustice with grace, and to keep going when I feel discouraged. I trust that You are working—even when I cannot see it. Amen.