The Heart of a Servant
"Now he who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will also supply and increase your store of seed and will enlarge the harvest of your righteousness. You will be enriched in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God. This service that you perform is not only supplying the needs of the Lord’s people but is also overflowing in many expressions of thanks to God."1
When it comes to serving in the church, some people seek prominence. There is nothing wrong with leading a committee or teaching a large class, but the Lord calls us to have a servant's heart. That means living in such a way that we glorify Him. And while what we do may go unnoticed by others, our Heavenly Father sees it and is pleased with our acts of service (Matthew 6:3-4).
Out of His great love, God places us right where He wants us to serve, and in every task we undertake we must do our best, whether it is cleaning, calling a sick person, or leading a Sunday school class. Ultimately, we serve Christ, and He desires our obedience and best efforts.
There are many reasons why the Lord calls us to serve. First, because serving helps us get rid of pride and selfishness, allowing our focus to be on Him. Second, because we proclaim our love for Christ through our mutual support. Third, because God tests and purifies our hearts through service.
"Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving." (Colossians 3:23-24 NIV)
Suggested Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, I come into Your presence asking You in the most humble way to transform my heart. I pray for a servant's heart. Recognizing that You are the protagonist, that it is not about me, that it has always been and always will be about You. I want to serve with love and humility. May the focus of my service be You and others. In the name of Jesus I pray, Amen.
1. 2 Corinthians 9:10-12.
Today's Encounter was written by: Rosina N.
All articles on this website are written by
Richard (Dick) Innes unless otherwise stated.