On the Journey Devotional
I met someone recently who spends a considerable amount of time each week volunteering around Winnipeg. So much time, in fact, that I found myself wondering what the heart behind that level of service might be.
As I thought about it more, I reflected on a season in my own life. I was in college, working three part-time jobs as a single parent, and still volunteering about ten hours a week at my church. Looking back now, I find myself asking the same question: What was my motivation in that season?
I believe the answer for each of us who feels the desire to serve comes from where we are in our relationship with the Lord.
Ephesians 2:8–10 teaches that we are saved by grace, not by works, but that we are created for good works. Our service is not an attempt to earn God’s love. Instead, it becomes a response of thankfulness for the grace we have already received.
Jesus Himself modeled a life of service. In Mark 10:45 we read, “For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve.” Jesus showed us that no act of service is beneath us. When we serve others, we follow His example and reflect His heart.
Serving is also a practical expression of love. Galatians 5:13 reminds us to “serve one another humbly in love.” And 1 John 3:18 encourages us, “Let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.” Love becomes visible when it moves from our hearts into our actions.
You will have heard it asked in Adult & Teen Challenge regarding living in community, “What did you do this week to serve others?”
God has also given each of us gifts and abilities that can bless others. First Peter 4:10 says, “Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others.” When we use the gifts God has given us, we strengthen and encourage the body of Christ.
Serving also reflects the heart of God to the world. Jesus said in Matthew 5:16, “Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”
You have been created with gifts and abilities meant to encourage, serve, and build up others while reflecting God’s love.
There may be seasons of life when serving feels difficult because of responsibilities, health, or circumstances. In those seasons, service may look different. It may mean being an encourager, a prayer warrior, or someone who reaches out with a phone call or meets a friend for coffee and shines the love of Jesus during that time together.
Or perhaps as you reflect on all that God has done for you, and the passions and interests He has placed in your heart, you may discover an opportunity to volunteer and bring His love and light to others.
Wherever you find yourself today, remember that service is simply love in action flowing from a grateful heart.
Prayer
Lord, thank You for the grace and love You have poured out on us. It is our desire to be a light in this world for You. Help us to share Your love with others and to give from grateful hearts. Please guide me to the places where You can use me. Show me where service can fit into my life and schedule. Help me see where I can meet a need and be a blessing to someone today from a heart of love for you. Amen.
Dawn Berry
Executive Assistant
