Every autumn, my husband, Joe, builds a large temporary enclosure around our covered patio. It’s one reason why our ducks have often lived many years past their typical lifespan. When the weather here in Eastern Pennsylvania is harsh, we keep our ducks in the enclosure with a heater, instead of letting them stay outdoors.

Before my husband started this monumental project this time around, we sat down together to have some lunch. Usually, Joe prays before all of our meals, but this time for some reason, I decided to do the praying. I asked the Lord to help my husband to work quickly and skillfully, and to build the best enclosure he’s ever built before. Little did I know the impact my simple prayer would have. Joe completed his project in record time, and multiple times he exclaimed, “God answered your prayer to help me build the best enclosure ever!” Sure enough, his finished work was a work of art.

Scripture says: “May Jesus Himself and God our Father, who reached out in love and surprised you with gifts of unending help and confidence, put a fresh heart in you, invigorate your work, enliven your speech.” (2 Thessalonians 2:16-17 MSG) When we commit our work to the Lord – no matter how small a task it may be – He will surprise us by assisting us, filling us with Christlike confidence, and invigorating our work. From now on, ask the Holy Spirit to remind you to commit all of your endeavors to the Lord, and watch what He will do for you and through you!

Prayer: Lord, teach me how to commit all of my works to You, so that they will prosper and succeed according to Your promise. (Proverbs 16:3) Bless all of my skills, and be pleased with the work of my hands. (Deuteronomy 33:11) Enable me to rejoice in all of my tasks, and to truly enjoy them. (Ecclesiastes 3:22) Thank You that by Your grace, I will eat the fruit of my labors, and blessings and prosperity will be mine! (Psalm 128:2)