I REALLY WANT TO SERVE THE LORD, BUT HOW?

BIBLE PASSAGE:
“Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people,
especially to those who belong to the family of believers.”
(Galatians 6:10)

MEDITATION:
Whenever we think about using our spiritual gifts to serve the Lord,
we might envision doing something that is profound
and noticed by a large number of folks.
Some may think, “If God wants me to serve Him by becoming a
public speaker, well known singer, sports star, etc., then I am ready!”

We need to remember that God calls us to serve in the way He
wants us to serve, which is often quite different from our own ideas.
He gives us special spiritual gifts which might only be used
effectively when we are taken out of our comfort zones.

Some are called to be pastors, evangelists, teachers, etc. which
requires them to be in front of many, and includes a lot of work
and prayer, in order to share His messages effectively.
But God may call us to serve in seemingly insignificant ways
which may not be detectable by large groups of people.

However, when God “gifts” us for serving Him, it is never insignificant,
but Satan will try to convince us that our efforts will not make a difference.
We may think that then we serve Him, we are only touching a small number of people, but if we only touch one, then we are making an impact for His kingdom.
My brothers and sisters, if one of you should wander from the truth and someone should bring that person back, remember this: Whoever turns a sinner from the error of their way will save them from death and cover over a multitude of sins.
(James 5:19-20)

One “significant” way we serve God is by encouraging others,
and especially those who are actively serving Him with their gifts.
Whenever Satan knows God has called someone to shepherd a group
of people, he increases His efforts to discourage them and make them quit.
Consequently, they need to be prayed for and encouraged often.

Think about this: If someone who is serving God is an “engine”,
then our encouragement is the “gas” that keeps them from shutting down.
It is an area of service that may not be noticed by others,
but it is an important and significant part of His ministry.
Others may not be aware of how we are using this gift, but God sees our efforts.

Do you remember the story of the Good Samaritan in Luke 10:30-37?
He was on a journey, but stopped and helped a bruised and broken man.
He didn’t make excuses saying, “It’s none of my business.”,
nor did he look around to see who was watching.
It was a golden moment for him to help and encourage someone, and he took it.

All around us are people who need the compassion of Christ.
They need for us to see their pain and problems
as golden opportunities to serve them in the name of Jesus.

The chief enemy to kindness and encouragement is busyness.
We have our priorities, our jobs, our duties, our responsibilities,
and we’re too busy; but if we’re too busy to serve, then we’re too busy.
This is the reason we need to maintain fellowship with other believers;
to gain spiritual strength for the opportunities that come our way.
And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and
good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit
of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see
the Day approaching. (Hebrews 10:24-25)

ACTION:
You may be the only Jesus some people may ever see.
What will they see in you?
Will they see someone who has a casual relationship with the Lord,
or will they see someone who loves Him with all their heart?

What’s on your schedule for today?
If someone called and needed a ride to the hospital,
could/would you take them?
If someone was in distress and needed a friend,
would you take the time to listen?

When is the last time you have encouraged
someone who is actively serving the Lord (pastor, etc.)?
If Satan can cause them to fall, or give up,
then he knows it will negatively affect many others.

If you haven’t encouraged those actively serving the Lord,
then what is holding you back?
Remember, they can be under a constant attack from Satan,
and your encouragement can inspire them to keep on keeping on.

Always leave room for Jesus to work through you,
by using you and your gift as part of His earthly ministry.
What God calls you to do is significant and important,
so don’t allow Satan to discourage you and convince you it is not.

Pray,
“Heavenly Father, thank You for Your plan of salvation and thank You, Jesus for taking the punishment I deserve so that my sins can be washed away. Lord, I could never repay You for what You have done for me, but I can show my appreciation by using the spiritual gifts you have given me to serve You. Thank You for giving me opportunities to prove my faith and love for You through service. Help me to avoid squandering my opportunities for serving You through encouraging others. You are my rock and solid foundation, and I know that whatever You want me to do, You will help me accomplish.”