Whatever You Do......Do Your Best

I spent the day Saturday doing something I love: encouraging kids. Clarke Schools hosted a Solo and Ensemble contest for instrumental and vocal music yesterday and I had the privilege of interacting with many students from several different schools. After each performance I would say, "Good job", or "sounded great", or something similar. Why? Because it was true! And besides, everyone needs encouragement from time to time.....even you.

Some kids walked out with a smile on their face knowing they'd nailed their performance. Others walked out in tears, or near tears, feeling as if they had just struck out completely. Did some play better than others? Sure. But I am absolutely convinced that every young person that performed yesterday (at least in the center I managed) played their best.

Others students whom I hadn't heard play would say, "I did horrible!" or "I bombed" or "I know I did terrible", only to find out that they received a 2 or a 1 rating. They were surprised. I wasn't. Not because I'm some musical expert.....I'm far from that.....but because I believe in these kids. I knew they would do well if they just put their minds to it.

lesiastes 9:10 says this, "Whatever work you do, do your best, because you are going to the grave, where there is no working, no planning, no knowledge, and no wisdom." I know that may sound a bit morbid, but think about it: Do your best while you're alive because someday you won't be.

I want to encourage you today: Do your best in everything you do. At work? Do your best. At home? Do your best. In your studies? Do your best. In your hobbies? Do your best. In your family? Do your best. Oh yeah......at solo & ensemble contest? Do your best.

You'll never regret giving and doing your best. Why? Because of God's promise in Proverbs 13:4, "The lazy will not get what they want, but those who work hard will."

Work hard, dear friends. Give and do your best. And then enjoy the rewards!