The twelfth-century Spanish rabbi Maimonides first recorded the phrase, “Man plans; God laughs.” In modern society the words have become, “If you want to see God laugh, tell Him your plans.” I know that phrase feels slightly cynical, but there is a depth of truth to it of which I need to be reminded on at least a daily basis (more often on an hourly one). When we try to undertake any task without setting God at the center of it, we do so in vain.
It seems slightly crazy to think about having God at the center of our mundane day-to-day activities—even some of the paperwork and meetings that go into serving the church—but try shifting your perspective. When you clean your house, do so with a thankful heart for the fact that the Lord has blessed you with shelter and the things that have cluttered it up. Cooking a meal provides the opportunity to praise the Almighty for the fact that you have a body that needs nourishment that can both taste delicious and provide the energy you need to tackle the activities of your day.
Paul phrased this idea a bit differently in the midst of a discussion concerning whether it was appropriate for Christians to eat food that had been sacrificed on altars by writing, “So whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” (1 Corinthians 10:31)