Joy in the Mundane

The Bulletin, 3/10/25

We hear a lot about finding joy in trials (James 1:2-4), and that’s an important subject. We know we are to find joy in our walk with God. But what about life’s mundane tasks?

They aren’t just obstacles to get past so we can really find joy. Indeed, they make up the majority of our lives. If we don’t find joy in them, our lives will largely be joyless. So how do we view them as a way to find joy in God?

It’s a chance to serve others

No matter what your job is, there’s a chance it makes someone’s day a little better when you do it well. Remember, the purpose is not that they would thank or praise us or think we’re the greatest. The purpose is to serve them in some way.

It’s a chance to build for the future

David did not know that his diligence as a shepherd was training him for fighting Goliath or leading a nation. You never know when faithful execution of today’s mundane tasks will pay off down the road. Faithful in little, faithful in much (Luke 16:10).

It’s a chance to build endurance

Nobody actually wants a life where they get to do what they want 24/7. It would be pure misery and leave us useless. This is the true meaning of Philippians 4:13–no matter where we find ourselves, we build strength by learning to lean on Christ.

It’s a chance to show gratitude

We don’t get to tell God He put us in the wrong place or gave us the wrong task. Every day is a gift from Him, and every task an opportunity to make the most of it as a show of gratitude to Him. Every bit of service we do must be “as unto the Lord” (Colossians 3:23).

Start each day in prayer. Treat the day as the tasks God sent you forth to accomplish. End the day giving Him thanks for the blessing of another day serving Him.