As we grow in our faith and become more involved in our church community, we are often reminded of the importance of service. As we participate in various ministries and begin to see the impact of our contributions, we are encouraged and filled with hope. We realize that real change is possible, both in our own lives and in the lives of those around us. The initial hesitation and self-doubt no longer hold us back. We find ourselves surrounded by fellow believers who are on the same journey of faith and service.
As we continue to serve, we become more comfortable with our roles and learn to accept our limitations. We extend grace to others and ourselves, embodying the forgiveness that Christ teaches (Ephesians 4:32). We look forward to our church gatherings and the opportunity to encourage our brothers and sisters in Christ.
Our growth in faith leads us to identify new opportunities to serve others as we have been served. We see volunteering as an act of worship and gratitude. We become more active in various church ministries and community outreach programs. We begin to see our secular jobs as mission fields, not just sources of income. We become more sensitive to the spiritual and physical needs around us, striving to be Christ's hands and feet in this broken world (1 Peter 4:10).
Even those who have known us for a long time begin to notice changes. They may be skeptical at first, but our genuine desire to serve sparks their interest. Those who knew us before our commitment to service develop a curiosity about our new dedication. Our words of encouragement and acts of service become a testament to Christ's love working through us. All the while, our desire to help and give matures as we grow in our faith. Our service becomes a natural outflow of the new life within us, as Jesus described: "Whoever believes in me, as Scripture has said, rivers of living water will flow from within them" (John 7:38).
Sometimes, however, service can feel forced. We may feel obligated because we don't want to let others down or because we seek recognition. This recognition might take the form of public praise or an expectation of respect from others. Either way, we feel disappointed if our efforts go unnoticed. Consider the example of a church member who faithfully managed the church's finances for years without public acknowledgment. At his funeral, his widow received a plaque with a misspelled "thank you for your fervice." Yet, he didn't serve for recognition but out of a grateful heart and love for God.
How is your attitude toward service? Do you feel resentment or obligation? Do you secretly seek recognition? If so, then pause and examine your heart. Share your feelings with trusted fellow believers. Allow the Holy Spirit to guide you to a place where you can serve joyfully, even in obscurity, remembering Jesus' words: "But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your giving may be in secret. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you" (Matthew 6:3-4).
God can renew your spirit of service so that it flows from a cheerful heart, not from compulsion. Let us all strive to be cheerful givers and servants, for "God loves a cheerful giver" (2 Corinthians 9:7). May our service be a reflection of Christ's love and sacrifice for us.
Prayer
Heavenly Father,
I humbly ask for Your wisdom to examine my heart and discern my true motives in service. Search me, O God, as You promised in Jeremiah 17:10, and reveal any hidden agendas or selfish ambitions that may taint my work for Your kingdom. Grant me the courage to confront my own pride and need for recognition, so that I may serve not for the praise of others, but for Your glory alone. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit, that my service may spring from a wellspring of love and gratitude, making me a truly cheerful giver who delights in the opportunity to be Your hands and feet in this world. Guide me to use my gifts effectively for the building up of Your church, following Christ's example of humility and sacrificial love.
In Jesus' name,
Amen.
