by Will Ceasar

Colossians ‭3:23‬ ‭AMP‬ – “Whatever you do [whatever your task may be], work from the soul [that is, put in your very best effort], as [something done] for the Lord and not for men,”

One word stands out to me and comes to mind in reference to this verse and my focus this year… Intentionality. Being mindful that what I’m doing is on purpose and for a purpose. I believe culture is always being shaped and is primarily shaped by how leaders behave, not simply how they believe.

It’s our work ethic, our demeanors, our postures, our countenance, our example. We must not only learn but remember to be strategically intentional and understand everything has a why and a purpose, and that everything we do is aimed at building relationships, before, during and after any time we spend with people.

Intentionality outlasts and outweighs service, because service without intentionality is aimless work. We have the honor to serve with the purpose of doing this unto God and to lead people to Him.

It’s not that we’re not intentional in what we do, we just need to continue to be mindful that whatever we do, we give our best because if we don’t intentionally do the right things, we will accidentally and coincidentally give the wrong message.

Through intentionality we’re being mindful of what we communicate and perpetuate off the stage and make sure that it coincides with what’s being said on the stage.

If we’re not intentional in our service, and/or our interaction with people we will not see them accidentally changed by the message of Jesus. But it starts with honest evaluation. Are you giving your best effort? Are you being intentional? Have you forgotten the why?

I hope you find encouragement in this verse as I have as well as a challenge. To be intentional. Keep an upward perspective. We know that ministry is not a season, it’s a lifetime, and with it we are creating a culture of intentionality.