EMBRACE OPPORTUNITIES TO SERVE

Ephesians 6:7 OEBus 

Give your service heartily and cheerfully, as working for the Master and not for people.

Dear Believer,

One great truth that many children of God lose sight of is that there is a reward awaiting the faithful. Kingdom work attracts Kingdom rewards, because God is a rewarder. (Hebrews 11:6).

Every opportunity to do something for God or serve our fellow Believers is another opportunity to deposit more reward in our account with God. 

The apostle tells us in the focus passage of today that we should serve cheerfully. That instruction is necessary because many Believers serve grudgingly. There can be many reasons for that. When we are given tasks that we feel are below our status, we may feel slighted. We may feel dishonored when someone is given a task we think is more honorable or will attract greater recognition. At such a time, we may serve, but do it reluctantly and unhappily. 

When we serve in things that pertain to the expansion of God’s work or the good of humanity, we must not just consider the physical angle but also the spiritual. The work may seem to be a service to a church or a pastor or a man, but we need to see that we are working for and with God and our efforts will not be wasted.

1Corinthians 15:58 KJV 

Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord.

An earthly master may not appreciate your efforts. They may belittle your work and talk down on your best efforts, but the Heavenly Master appreciates your toils. 

Whether in cleaning the toilet or giving or preaching, what God looks at is the heart. 

Some of the most powerful ministers in the New Testament as recorded in the book of Acts were those who ‘serve tables.’ The apostles apportioned them tasks that seemed to be below their spiritual ranking.

Philip, Stephen and others were just ‘deacons’ who served food to people and distributed daily needs. But that didn’t stop the power of God from resting powerfully upon them. 

Acts 6:8 NET 

Now Stephen, full of grace and power, was performing great wonders and miraculous signs among the people.

He was a good server, and yet was used mightily by God.

Stephen also demonstrated the power of God mightily. (Acts 8:5-8).

More importantly, we must look forward to the promotion that awaits us in heaven. When our time here is spent, we will stand before God who rewards everything we’ve done in the flesh. (2 Corinthians 5:10).

Having this mind makes the Believer to despise all mockery and the discouragement that come from the insensitivity of other men. Jesus our Lord and Savior is the one with whom we have to do.

As you serve, pray, give and love, know that the Lord does not forget the tiniest work done in His name.  You will be rewarded.

Have a great day.

Your friend,

Deon.

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