We’ve been blessed with a range of different emotions. Feelings can greatly enhance life, as long as we don’t let them take off on us. Sometimes that’s easier said than done when we’re in the middle of a trying situation. When negative emotions threaten to boil over, pausing to give thanks gets them back under control.   

God has given each of us an assignment, which isn’t work we can do if we get bogged down in details. Busy work isn’t the same as actually accomplishing something. When we get tired and frustrated because we’re spinning our wheels with no measurable results, factoring in the finished works of Jesus gives us a new perspective. The Lord has done great things for us; this makes us glad and fills us with joy.

What we strive for can all be gone in an instant. Wondering whether everything we’ve worked for will collapse can have a negative effect on our productivity and take away our motivation. Believers have received something permanent that can’t be yanked away. We’ve received a kingdom that can’t be shaken; therefore, we can be thankful and worship God with reverence and awe.

Being genuinely productive doesn’t come from self-effort. It stems not from the intellectual mind, but from faith that flows from the grateful heart. When people saw the miracles that Jesus did, they voiced interest in also doing the works of God. He answered that the work of God is to believe on the one whom He sent.

God’s work is already done; it is finished. Because of everything He did for us, we can now be productive in fulfilling our mission. Accomplishing the tasks He set before us is impossible without trusting in His love for us. Accepting God’s grace turns our works of the flesh into works of faith.

Prayer:

God, our emotions can significantly impact our productivity. When we want to accomplish something meaningful, the right motives stem from a thankful heart. Thank You for giving us authority over our emotions so that they don’t derail the work we do for You. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Scriptures:

Psalm 126:3

Hebrews 12:28, NIV

John 6:28, 29

John 19:30