August 2024

Strong & Immovable

B. Keith Chapman, President & CEO

We have all had days in which we feel as though nothing much was accomplished. Some days, the sheer volume or complexity of the work ahead can be overwhelming. Other times, there are tasks that are not difficult, yet we lack the motivation to get it done. In all these cases, it is easy for us to find excuses or struggle to stay focused. Maria Edgeworth once said, “If we take care of the moments, the years will take care of themselves.” This quote is a perfect example of focusing on the moments at hand, knowing that they will determine where you are going in the future. Staying motivated, goal-oriented, and focused on your purpose will help ensure every day is a positive investment into your future success.

I Corinthians 15:58 (NLT) says, “So, my dear brothers and sisters, be strong and immovable. Always work enthusiastically for the Lord, for you know that nothing you do for the Lord is ever useless.” I love the words used in this verse of the scripture, “be strong AND immovable.” Being strong is important but when coupled with determination it is much more powerful. There will always be days that present unexpected challenges in which forward progress seems to come to a screeching halt. However, the passage clearly says that when we are working for the Lord, nothing is useless. The Lord can make it all work together for our good.

I was recently reading the book of Nehemiah and was reminded of his strength and determination. Nehemiah was deeply concerned about the condition of Jerusalem as the city had been destroyed. He received permission from the king to rebuild the walls and gates. Nehemiah faced many challenges as he led the people to rebuild the city. Limited resources, exhausting workdays, people quarreling, and even plots from his enemies to cause him physical harm did not stop Nehemiah from remaining focused on his purpose and plan. Nehemiah 6:9 (NLT) says, “They were just trying to intimidate us, imagining they could discourage us and stop the work. So, I continued the work with greater determination.”  Nehemiah used the very things designed to discourage, instill fear, and stop forward progress to motivate him even more.

The conference room wall at our new Ten-8 headquarters building reads, “And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him. Colossians 3:17:” A reminder that everything we do should be for our Lord and Savior. The mistake some make is believing that this directive only really applies to ministry. However, this is far from the truth. If we want to keep God’s blessing and favor on our decisions, families, businesses, and lives, we should remain determined to commit everything (word and deed) to the Lord Jesus and always give thanks for the blessings in our lives.

Challenge: Follow Nehemiah’s example and be strong and immovable. Use the challenges and frustrations to motivate you even more. Stay focused on even the smallest moments as they set the course for your future success. Remember, nothing we do is useless if we do it in the name of the Lord Jesus!

Published: August 1, 2024

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