There is nothing like being a servant! “Jesus came not to be served but to serve and give His life as a ransom for many” (Mark 10:45). Something happens to us when we begin to have an attitude of serving – all manner of things that were closed up to us become open, and God begins to work in and through us in ways we never thought of – ways we only hoped or dreamed that one day it might be so. The more we serve others the more attractive we become. Why? Because we are taking on the very character and essence of our Lord Jesus! Jesus was a Giver and, as we become givers, we become more and more like Him. Becoming like Him is the Father’s goal for each of our lives! Paul in Romans 8:29 says, “For those God foreknew He also predestined to be conformed to the likeness of His Son, that He might be the firstborn among many brothers.” If you spend time contemplating Jesus’ life you’ll discover He was a Giver; a Giver of His love and compassion, forgiveness and grace, time and attention, resources and gifts, 

You see, serving is a heart attitude. It starts with our attitudes and then it is translated into an action. Love has to express itself. It wants to burst forth and does not want to be contained or hindered, but wants to envelope others. Love is always “others focused”. Love is the most potent force in the world, far superceding nuclear power, or any other power! Love can change the world … “For God so loved the world that He gave . . .” (John 3:16). Look at love’s results! “By this will all men know you are My disciples if you love one another …” (John 13:34-35). “If I have not love I am nothing!” (1 Corinthians 13).

I encourage you not to sit on the sidelines of Christianity, but to get involved. Serve and give of yourself to others. Use your talents, abilities and gifts to build up the body of believers in Jesus Christ. Paul told the Corinthian Church to “Excel in the gifts that build up the body!” (1 Corinthians 14:12). When we all do that, something powerful begins to happen – lives and relationships are healed, hope is birthed, love is ignited, vision is stirred, and wholeness and healing become normal. The Church is the hope of the world. Our communities need us to be servants!

Become a servant, become “others focused,” demonstrate love!

How can you serve? 

•  First by asking the Lord for a servant’s heart attitude.

• By considering others needs before your own.

• By being friendly. Imagine the impact!

• By using your gifts and abilities for other people’s benefit, not even contemplating “What’s in it for me?”

• By being a giver of your resources to God’s work.

• By realizing you can be a blessing to someone less fortunate than yourself.

• By being a pray-er – privately, and joining with others.

• By being a loving person.
  
  

Remember, it is not about me (or you) - it is about Him and others!

“If you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from His love, if any fellowship with the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and purpose. Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others” (Philippians 2:1-4).
                                                     - Pastor Grant Brewster. 

Bible  Readings:  Philippians 2:1-11; 1 Corinthians 16:13-18; Galatians 6:1- 5; Acts 20:19; Luke 22:27; 1 Thessalonians 1:3; 2 Timothy 1:16-18; 1 John 2:28 to 1 John 4:21. 

Please Pray This Prayer:

 “Lord, You are our example in every area of life. You came not to be served, but to serve, even though You should have been the One served. Thank You for showing us the way, so that we can become what You were – an example of love! Change our minds and hearts, and give us the grace to always consider others needs and interests before our own. Give us the courage to follow the leading of the Holy Spirit as we look for opportunities to see where You are moving, and so serve others by demonstrating Your extravagant love. In Jesus Name! Amen.”

 The Gospel Faith Messenger Ministry,  New Zealand. Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.