God wants us to make the most of the talents He's given to us. That's His will for a student writing a term paper or for an architect designing a soaring skyscraper. But as history rolls on, we also know that the greatest of human work will eventually become dust and ashes.

Even our greatest achievements are like sand castles children build on the seashore, which quickly wash away. J. M. Thornburn wrote, "All the genuine, deep delight in life is in showing people the mudpies you have made; and life is at its best when we confidingly recommend our mudpies to each other's sympathetic consideration."

While that may sound cynical, it's a realistic view of our lives—if we have no belief in a world to come. But our view of life changes dramatically if we put God into the picture and take into account the eternity that stretches beyond time. If we are motivated by love for God, obedience to His Word, and a burning desire to glorify the heavenly Father (Col. 3:22-23), our works will have an imperishable value and we will receive God's approval (1 Cor. 3:14; 9:24-25).

Work that is done to glorify the Lord gives Him pleasure and brings us blessing. Remember, it's our motive that counts.  — Vernon C. Grounds