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The Joy of Serving
Self or Savior?
Dear Friends,
Today, I want to share something that's been on my heart lately - the profound difference between serving ourselves and serving our Lord. It's a topic that has deeply impacted my own walk with Christ, and I believe it could transform your perspective too.
The Crossroads of Service
Matthew 6:24: "No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money."
Every day, we face a pivotal decision that Jesus himself highlighted: will we serve ourselves or our Savior? I've wrestled with this choice, and I bet you have too. The world's siren call of self-service is tempting - believe me, I know. It promises quick rewards and personal kingdoms. But friends, I've went both paths, and there's no comparison to the richness of serving our Lord. This choice isn't just Sunday morning stuff; it permeates every aspect of our lives:
Our relationships:
Do we love conditionally or sacrificially?
Our work:
Are we climbing ladders or building God's kingdom?
Our resources:
Are they tools for our comfort or for His glory?
Our legacy:
What story will our lives tell when we're gone?
I've seen lives transformed - my own included - when we truly surrender to serving God. It's not always easy, but it's always worth it. The joy and purpose I've found in His service? It's beyond anything this world offers. We become part of a divine narrative, finding fulfillment that transcends our limited perspectives.
The Joy of Serving the Lord
Galatians 5:13-14: "For you have been called to live in freedom, my brothers and sisters. But don’t use your freedom to satisfy your sinful nature. Instead, use your freedom to serve one another in love. 14 For the whole law can be summed up in this one command: “Love your neighbor as yourself.”"
When we make this choice – and trust me, it is a choice we make every day – incredible things start happening:
We find a purpose that's bigger than our to-do lists.
Our church family becomes our actual family.
We grow in ways we never expected.
We get to be part of God's work – how cool is that?
Now, I'm not talking about some grand, scary commitment. Serving can be as simple as helping out at the local food bank, supporting that missionary your church loves, or just being there when your neighbor's having a rough day. Every little act? It matters to God. It really does.
Remember, we're not doing this to earn brownie points with God. We serve because He loved us first, and wow, what a love that is! Let's cheer each other on as we grow closer to Jesus through serving. Trust me, it's an adventure you don't want to miss out on!
Practical Steps to Serve the Lord
Let's get practical about this serving business. It's not about grand gestures; it's about daily choices that align our hearts with God's. Here are some steps we can take together:
Tune in to God's whispers: Carve out quiet time each day to ask, "Lord, where do You want me today?" You might be surprised at the gentle nudges you receive.
Unleash your God-given superpowers: We've all got 'em! Maybe you're a whiz with numbers, a great listener, or make a mean casserole. How can you use that gift to bless others this week?
Start in your own backyard: Serving doesn't always mean going far. Look around - who in your neighborhood, workplace, or family could use a helping hand or encouraging word?
Jump in with both feet: Is there a ministry at your church you've been eyeing? Take the plunge! Don't worry about being perfect; just show up with a willing heart.
Remember, every act of service, no matter how small, echoes in eternity. So, what's your next step in this serving adventure? Let's encourage each other to take that leap of faith. After all, we're in this together, building God's kingdom one act of love at a time.
A Prayer for Servants' Hearts
Heavenly Father, we thank You for the privilege of serving You. Help us to resist the temptation of self-service and embrace the joy of serving You and others. Give us hearts that reflect Your love and hands that are ready to work for Your kingdom. In Jesus' name, Amen.
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