Today’s Scripture: Galatians 5:13
For you have been called to live in freedom, my brothers and
sisters. But don’t use your freedom to satisfy your sinful nature. Instead, use
your freedom to serve one another in love.
Words of Devotion
Jesus commanded that we
serve one another, but obeying this mandate in humility is not natural for us.
Sure, there are times we like to help others. But service that involves
self-sacrifice--especially for someone we deem undeserving--much more difficult
to do.
What does it mean to serve?
Consider Christ's example. He gave up everything in heaven to live among us,
subjecting Himself to dishonor and human frailty. And He loved even those who
rejected Him. Think about how He humbled Himself and washedthe disciples' feet
at Passover. This was a disgusting, lowly task that a slave might be
assigned--far from anything a king should do. He even knew these men were about
to abandon Him but served them anyway.
Ultimately, Christ gave His
life for us. And He did so while we were still sinners (Rom. 5:8). Serving
others was His lifestyle--part of who He was and what He did. As His followers,
we should strive to be like Him.
Therefore, service involves
first dying to our selfish attitudes and motives. Only then can we live to
glorify Christ. Jesus said that the greatest commandments are to love God
wholeheartedly and to love others (Matt. 22:37-39). Ironically, it is only when
we humbly serve others that we experience God's fullness in our own lives.
Many
try to achieve happiness by striving after their own desires. The result?
Tired, unsatisfied people.
True contentment happens
only when we walk closely with Jesus. He shows where we can humble ourselves
and take care of others. These actions, done through His strength, will be
blessed.
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