Ecclesiastes says, “Whatever you do, do it with all your heart and you are honoring God.” When you give 100 percent effort, you do it to the best of your ability; because you’re honoring God, you will have His blessing. That means it will go better. It will be easier, and you will accomplish more.

Let’s make it practical. When you do the dishes, don’t complain; do it with all your heart and you honor God. When you mow the lawn, don’t drag around all sour. Mow it with enthusiasm. Mow it like you’re on a mission from God. With every step, thank God that your legs work. Thank God that you’re healthy. At the office, don’t give it a halfhearted effort. Don’t just do what is required to get by. You’re not working unto people. You’re working unto God. Do it with all your heart. Do it with a smile. Give it your very best.

When I was growing up, there was a police officer who directed traffic at the Galleria Mall in Houston. His assignment was to keep people safe on one of the busiest intersections in the city. Traffic could be backed up for five or ten minutes. He didn’t just direct traffic like normal, he practically danced while he directed.

Both hands would be constantly moving. He had that whistle and he held his head like a drum major. His feet would dance here and there. He could direct traffic and moonwalk at the same time. He really put on a show. Drivers pulled over just to watch him. He did not drag through the day. He didn’t feel bad about going to work. He was passionate.

That’s the way you should be. Don’t drag through the day. Don’t get stuck in a rut. Whatever you do, put your heart into it. Put a spring in your step. Wear a smile on your face. You honor God when you do it with all your heart.

Joel Osteen, Daily Readings from You Can, You Will: 90 Devotions to Becoming a Winner (New York City, NY: FaithWords, 2015).