Proverbs 22:29

Do you see a man skillful in his work?
He will stand before kings;
he will not stand before obscure men.

In his volume entitled Works, Martin Luther asks, “What is the greatest work?” What he answers is “Salvation.” He was pointing to the greatest work in accomplishing the greatest gift. Christ gave his all—for the benefit of others. His work was obedient to God and pleasing to God. We, too, are called to work for the benefit of others and for God’s glory. The excellence and quality of our work represents who we are (and whose we are).

Remember:

       God does his work with excellence. When he created the world, the end result was “very good” (Gen. 1:31).
       God equips people with specific skills and abilities that fit them for certain kinds of. He wants us to use our skills for their intended purposes, thereby serving him with all our mind and might (Matt. 22:37–38).
       Christians are to do their work as if Christ himself were evaluating the effort—because he is. 
       Christians are commanded to be “well pleasing in all things” in their work, because doing so makes the gospel of Christ attractive to those around us.

In light of these principles, ask yourself what kind of quality and craftsmanship you put into your work. Would co-workers ask why you strive to do your best?

Matthew Henry’s commentary compares good work and being a Christian: “Seest thou a man diligent in the business of religion? He is likely to excel in virtue, and shall stand before the King of kings.”