Having a mind to work

The View From Above: Thoughts to Help With Everyday Life

June 4, 2026

Pastor Paul Stephens

Have a Mind to Work

They had a huge task before them. The walls of Jerusalem had been broken down, and the people were charged to rebuild and reconstruct them. Of course, I’m talking about the inspired leader, Nehemiah, and his leadership in accomplishing that task.

They made incredible progress despite many obstacles and challenges.

The verse that struck me in my reading of this account in the Book of Nehemiah was:

Scripture Focus

Nehemiah 4:6

“So we built the wall, and the entire wall was joined together up to half its height, for the people had a mind to work.”

The NIV translation says:

“So we rebuilt the wall till all of it reached half its height, for the people worked with all their heart.”

Doing the tasks that we are assigned in life has to be much more than just going through the motions. We all need to love what we are doing and put our whole heart into it. That is what makes life so rewarding and satisfying.

Whether it’s marriage and family, work and career, education, or our ministry and calling, it should all be done with the same spirit we read in the scripture above—with all of our hearts.

Put everything you have into all you do.

When I see people doing that, it inspires me. A doctor who views his craft as a calling; the electrician, carpenter, or plumber who performs their duties with excellence; the teacher, police officer, waiter or waitress, business owner, manager, or supervisor.

Whatever you do, if you are conscientious, diligent, and desire to accomplish your responsibilities with as much perfection as possible, you are going to be greatly rewarded.

Remember, all that we do is as unto the Lord.

Colossians 3:23-24

“And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance; for you serve the Lord Christ.”

Today’s Challenge

Approach every responsibility today with a mind to work and a heart fully committed to excellence. Put your whole heart into what God has entrusted to you, remembering that ultimately you are serving the Lord.