Let Love Lead
… In Our Service to God – Part VII
Scripture Reading: Ephesians 4:1-16
Key Verses: Ephesians 4:11-12 NIV
So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up.
Using today’s Scripture Reading and Key Verse as background, lets close this month’s devotional with this verse from the Old Testament:
“But if you refuse to serve the LORD, then choose today whom you will serve. Would you prefer the gods your ancestors served beyond the Euphrates? Or will it be the gods of the Amorites in whose land you now live? But as for me and my family, we will serve the LORD.” (Joshua 24:15)
This verse, and really the entire Bible, make two things very clear. First, everyone serves something or someone. Second, God leaves the choice up to us; we decide what or whom we serve.
As we think about who we are really serving, look at the very definition of the word “serve”: to perform duties or services for another person or organization (definition from Oxford Languages).
Joshua’s question to the Israelites was about the duties and services that the people would perform and for whom they would perform them.
God did not need people to say that they like Him or have a sentimental feeling for Him more than other gods. God has always asked His people, His true followers, to perform duties and services. This was not so God could feel like the “big boss”, but out of love for the world.
God loves the whole world, and He does not want to lose anyone. Since everyone does not know how good and loving God is, He wants us to live out our faith in visible ways to help the world see Him in action.
Let me reword Joshua’s question: Will you perform the duties and services for which God has equipped you?
Right now, even if you are not clear on what God wants you to do, are you ready to say “Yes, I will serve the Lord”. If you say that to God, then God knows how to make clear what He wants from you.
At first, God may ask you simply to be faithful to the services of your church, to learn about Him, and to obey His truths. As you are faithful and keep showing up, God will present opportunities that He knows you can do. When an opportunity gets your attention, be ready to jump in and do your best. Every opportunity will not be a life-long ministry. As you grow and mature, He may present other opportunities.
Be determined to be “rich” in good deeds (1 Timothy 6:18). Let love lead in your service to God!
Father, I choose to serve You as I live in this world. Help me to see where You want me to serve and grant me the strength to do it. In Jesus’s Name I pray, amen.