Living an Authentic Life

I was 18, my life was in transition and I had lost my confidence. I had just finished high school and was not playing any sport after playing years of volleyball, fast ball, track and badminton. Everything was changing in my life, including a move following serious family issues. I had withdrawn from my university program and was working as a server in a fast-paced restaurant. However, I was distracted and felt disoriented. I couldn’t keep my focus, and I knew that I wasn’t performing well and would likely soon be let go. Everything felt like I was free-falling and I didn’t know where I would land.

One thing I did know was that in my newly fresh faith, going to God’s Word was the only thing that could bring me direction and comfort. I read a verse in my devotions that leapt off the page right into my heart:

“Whatever you do, do it from the heart, as something done for the Lord and not for people.” -Colossians 3:23

It felt like fire in my heart, and I immediately felt my whole perspective shift. I could work from my heart, with all I had, for God; that was truly all that mattered.

My attitude and confidence completely shifted. I was having fun and enjoyed my work. My co-workers and boss asked me what had happened to me, and I could answer them honestly, “I prayed!”

Since then, Colossians 3:23 had remained one of my life verses. Whether I was playing a sport (which I happily got back to again eventually!), or working or leading a team, if I start to feel disoriented or lose confidence, I remind myself of whom I am focused on pleasing. I reorient my heart and do what I am doing enthusiastically for God, which brings out my very best.

This heart motivation impacts every area of life: playing, coaching, relationships, family, community. The Amplified Bible expands on this life principle:

“Whatever you do (whatever your task may be), work from the soul (that is, put in your very best effort), as (something done) for the Lord and not for men.” - Colossians 3:23

When we put in our very best effort to please God and live for Him, our lives reorient to what truly matters. We can be confident in our status as God’s son or daughter and live out of that identity confidently, trusting God has good plans set aside for us (Jeremiah 29:11).

When you focus on serving God, you bring your best to Him and everyone in your life. Focus on Him and let your light shine!

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Live It Out:

Quarter Verse – “We all, with unveiled faces, are looking as in a mirror at the glory of the Lord and are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory; this is from the Lord who is the Spirit.” -2 Corinthians 3:18

Question – Are you approaching your days giving everything for the glory of God? If not, how can you adjust to serve Him in your heart and life?

Challenge – Memorize Colossians 3:23 and start repeating it to yourself in the morning before you get caught up in the demands of the day. 

*If you read this article and aren’t in relationship with Christ yet but would like to know more, we invite you to go through FCA’s The FOUR, which explains how an everlasting and fulfilling life with God is possible.

We want you to join us as we go through the Glory journey this year! Discover Chasing Glory, Received Glory, Reflecting Glory and Lasting Glory in your heart and purpose by diving into God’s Word and joining us through monthly content and challenges. Visit 

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