Former IBM president Thomas Watson once said, "To be successful, you have to have your heart in your business, and your business in your heart." As true as these words are in the corporate world, they are even more so for the life of the ministry. Your job makes sense only when your heart is fully engaged. Otherwise you'll eventually decide that the sacrifices, the long hours, the undeserved criticism, the low-pay, and all the other fringe benefits that come with your calling just aren't worth it.

How do you put your heart in your work? By remembering that the result of our good work isn't just a bigger crowd on Sunday or a well-organized church picnic or a well-deserved raise in pay. The result of our good work is changed lives that reap the benefits of eternity.

For this reason we need to remember the words of Paul...

Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand.

It only makes sense that he says next ...

Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. (Colossians 3:1-2)

There is a close connection to what we think about and what we feel, a close connection to what we think about and what we want. Focus on the eternal results of your work, not the temporary frustrations. This will help you set your heart and your mind on things above.