In the workplace, performance determines whether we keep our jobs. Therefore, striving for excellence seems like a good thing.
For fifteen years, I had a job where I was loved for my exceptional productivity, yet my boss wanted more. One day he said, “If you can’t do the job, I’ll find someone who can.” Did he mean it? Probably not, but I felt it was right to leave. The next day, I turned in my notice.
God was my “big boss,” the one I most wanted to please.
If I didn’t know the Lord well enough, working for him could be even more stressful. That’s why I’m thankful to have a loving Father, who is easily pleased with my effort.
In the story of the talents (Matthew 25:14–30), the only condemnation is for the one who feared not being good enough and didn’t put his talent to use. God will always use our effort to produce the results he wants, so we don’t have to stress over being fired.
God is the miracle-worker who guarantees a good result from our effort.