BLUF: “Ships don’t sink because of the water that’s around them; ships sink because of the water that gets in them.” 

Context: This is Army 101 wisdom. SGM Knight wrote this to us soldiers, but it applies universally. People are at different stages of life. Some are retired and perhaps have lots of free time. Others work part-time. Others are lazy. Still others work, work, work. Work is not a result of the Fall. It is a good and holy gift from God to work. To steward well. To shepherd well. Whatever we do, Scripture says, we’re to do the very best we can and do it with all our might. Why? Because God sees and will judge us justly. 

Texts: “Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with your might . . .” (Eccl 9:10, ESV) and “Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men” (Col 3:23, ESV). 

Encouragement: I think SGM Knight is wise to remind us of this principle in his quote about ships taking on water. We need to work hard, yes, but we should simultaneously inculcate self-awareness sufficient to the tasks God has given us to do. We’re effective only insofar as we have something of value to give. Press on. Work wisely; work well; work for the Lord. Why? Because the Lord sees us.