A Servant's Heart
One of our Heavenly Father’s primary modes of working in the world is through His people. It’s no wonder why the word “serve” in various forms appears throughout scripture over one thousand times. God has created each of us uniquely, fashioning every son and daughter with special gifts and attributes that lend to the service of others.
1 Peter 4: 10 states, “Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.”
A servant’s heart beats within us all!
What a pleasure and privilege it is to be able to utilize the gifts and talents God has molded us with to help others. Reflect on what stirs your heart or what you’re passionate about, and allow what you love to be an avenue for God to work through for the good of humanity.
If you want to get your mind off of yourself–if you want a deeper sense of joy and purpose–serve others! It is more blessed to give than to receive (Acts 20:35).
When we serve others, God’s countenance shines through us, touching hearts and changing lives. While poverty, lack, sickness, hate, and other injustices of this world leave God brokenhearted, serving others delights His heart. It’s an act of worship to God!
At times, it may feel as though the task at hand is too vast–that in the broad spectrum of all that is wrong in this fallen world, helping here or there doesn’t matter. Let this be a reminder–that is a lie from the enemy! Whether big or small, every task done out of love leaves an impact and neither goes unnoticed by God. Mother Teresa conveyed the idea that it is not about doing great things, but rather doing small things with great love. When done unto God, no act of service is in vain; no act of kindness is insignificant. Our acts of service are influential—making a difference and leaving an impact.
We have all heard of the ripple effect. Just as the ripples in water reverberate outward after a pebble is dropped in a lake, extending a hand and showing kindness to others moves beyond the initial interaction or experience. Outreach has the potential to influence far more lives than we will ever witness or know.
God’s plan to expand His Kingdom includes all of us! We are His hands, and we are His feet. D.L. Moody once said, “Out of 100 men, one will read the Bible. The other 99 will read the Christian.” Don’t wait for someone else to lavish others with Jesus’ love. Be the light! They will know we are Christians by our love (John 13:35).
If you would like to make a difference in the community this holiday season, Champion has partnered with the Washington Salvation Army with various opportunities to give back to others. Visit the Online Bulletin here for ways to get involved and be a blessing to others! Additionally, keep a look out for more ways to serve in 2024!