So no matter what your task is, work hard. Always do your best as the Lord’s servant, not as man’s, because you know your reward is the Lord’s inheritance. You serve the Lord, the Anointed One. Colossians 3:23-24 (Voice)

Here’s another version:

Put your heart and soul into every activity you do, as though you are doing it for the Lord himself and not merely for others. For we know that we will receive a reward, an inheritance from the Lord, as we serve the Lord Yahweh, the Anointed One! Colossians 3:23-23 The Passion Translation

Our son-in-love, Jacob, is the most diligent person I know. I first met him when he was a freshman in high school and was a cashier at the local grocery store. He was always super friendly and helpful. I found out through my daughter that a few time I had embarrassed her with offhand comments about the personal items that I was purchasing.

My daughter met Jacob while they were both in middle school. They started ‘going out’ in high school. Since he was one year ahead of her, they went to the proms together for three years. When it was time for him to buy her Homecoming mum for her senior year, he gave me the money to buy all the ‘stuff’ for it and I made it.

He put himself through college and went on to get a Masters in Architecture. He is steadfast and persistent. I honor his ability to keep his head high even when others are struggling. He was steadfast and so determined to finish his education that he didn’t even invite us to his graduation with the Bachelor’s Degree as he knew he would be getting his masters as quickly as possible.

Honor Keys

It can be hard to find the words to thank someone who works graciously in the background because they don’t seem to need the recognition. Give it anyway. That  is a big part of the honor to bestow on this individual. They may not need it to keep going yet will appreciate your gratitude and expressions of appreciation.

Active Definition

Seeing every task as an assignment form the Lord and applying energy and concentration to accomplish it. This is not a workaholic who is driven to complete a set of tasks. Instead, it is a passion to serve others in the way that Jesus would do it if he had your job title. You do your part and pray for the others who can help complete the tasks at hand. Yes, you do work hard but for your Heavenly boss instead of recognition from others.

Creative Wording

I want to thank you for your consistent example of diligence in everything you do. I appreciate what you taught me over the years. I will never forget the time you ______________ (specific example when they were tough on you and what you learned). It is amazing to see how you work a long day yet come home to take over as a loving Dad to your kiddos so Megan can have a break. You are instilling such a wonderful work ethic in the next generation. I am thankful you are part of our family and appreciate all that you do.

Synonyms: steadfast, unrelenting, untiring, persistent, careful, attentive, conscientious, eager, steadfast and constant

This is day seven of a 31 day writing challenge. For more inspiration on honoring those you love, click here.

Author, speaker, corporate trainer, ordained minister and Hope Catalyst, Karen Sebastian enjoys sharing her rich life experiences with others – engaging them in adventurous discoveries of the beauty of hope in a dark, cloudy world. Her books will inspire you to embrace hope no matter what you are going through. To increase hope and improve relationships with yourself and those that you love, check out her Facebook page – The Power of Hope. Karen’s third book on hope – The Power of Hope for Caregivers: Honor the Ride will be released on 11.20.18.