Good planning and hard work lead to prosperity,
but hasty shortcuts lead to poverty.
– Proverbs 21:5 (New Living Translation)

In athletics, we are always talking about luck. How many of us have heard or said something like this following a hard fought game? “Luck wasn’t on our side tonight, the breaks just didn’t fall our way.” I learned very early in my coaching career that the lucky teams were usually the ones that worked the hardest. Sure, sometimes we face opponents that simply have more talent, but when evenly matched, the individual or team that has prepared themselves the best usually prevails. Lucky teams don’t often win championships. Champions don’t leave things to chance and good fortune. The formula for success is more often dependent on hard work than shortcuts or luck.

Hard work was valued in Solomon’s day. To see a task to its completion was an accomplishment. In today’s world we often get scared off by the idea of hard work and if we do start something, quitting is often the answer when things get tough. Being a hard worker doesn’t come naturally to many people, it’s the result of strong character. Too often we look for a short cut or the easy path. Usually that approach leads to disappointment and a waste of precious time and energy. Solomon tells us to work hard as if in the service of God. Surely we don’t want to serve God with a haphazard or “whatever” approach. God gave His best through the life, death and resurrection of His Son Jesus Christ. He deserves nothing less from each of us.

Heavenly Father, You leave nothing to chance. Lord, teach me the value of hard work. Help me to give You my best every day. Help me also to give my best to those You have called me to serve. Amen.

(Click on the link for a little work inspiration this week!)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qu5q_awytxU