Expecting nothing, skilful in everything

anapekṣaḥ śucirdakṣa udāsīno gatavyathaḥsarvārambhaparityāgī yo madbhaktaḥ sa me priyaḥ

Expecting nothing, pure, skilful, unconcerned, untroubled, giving up self-centred schemes, that devotee is dear to Me.

What it means

Krishna names more qualities. Anapeksha, expecting nothing. Pure. Daksha, skilful and capable. Udasina, not caught up in petty concerns. Free of distress. And giving up self-centred schemes. The devotee isn't passive. They're skilful, but their skill serves love, not ambition.

The story

Arjuna is the most skilful archer alive. Krishna keeps the skill, and removes the expectation. That combination is what Krishna loves.

In your life

Think of a volunteer who brings real professional skill to a charity and expects nothing back. Use your best skill today to help someone, and ask for nothing in return.