Thoughts from daily Bible reading for today- December 16, 2011
“But made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness.” Philippians 2:7
Jesus voluntarily became a servant for the sake of others. He made Himself nothing so others could be something. He served out of humility and obedience to God. Jesus was first motivated to serve His Master in heaven, which lead to His service of mankind on earth. Some days I don’t feel like being a servant. I grow weary and afraid, but by God’s grace I make myself nothing for the greater something. Choosing to serve Christ is best.
Serving like Jesus does not always receive a ‘pat on the back’, but sometimes rejection, or a ‘kick in the behind’. It is our labor of love the Lord loves. He blesses service that is not concerned with receiving the credit but crediting Christ only. Jesus was a suffering servant who was obedient to death. Service like Jesus’ requires Him working in you, and serving through you. His children are His creation for His good works.
“For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” Ephesians 2:10
How can we serve like Jesus? Many times it is the small and mundane things that solicit service. Mowing the neighbor’s grass, organizing dinner for another couple, providing transportation to the doctor for a sick friend, tutoring children, being a foster parent, volunteering at church and work, chores around the house, or giving your spouse a break from their routine responsibilities. These are all everyday ways to serve for Jesus’ sake, but there may be another level of service to which He is calling you.
Maybe you are to serve overseas for a season, or you are to serve your family by taking a less stressful job. Are you to relocate your parents into your home or close by, to care for and honor them during their last days? Service like Jesus’ is not always easy and leads to death of self, and life in Christ. Choose to serve, even when you don’t have to serve.
“Therefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed—not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence—continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you to will and to act according to his good purpose.” Philippians 2:12-13
Where am I to serve even though I may be uncomfortable and fearful?
Related Readings: Joshua 22:5; Judges 2:7; Psalm 22:30; Luke 4:8; Acts 20:19
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Service like Jesus requires Him working in you, and serving through you. #service
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Boyd,
Always look forward to your posts. My wife is also a devoted reader This blog was super timely and specific for me. Thanks for writing what God puts on your heart.
This scripture really touched me. That Jesus gave so unconditionally to all of us really humbles me. We are so blessed.
I agree wholeheartedly with this blog post except for the “torturing children” quote. Perhaps that should be reviewed.
Thank You for being in our lives.