A Lifetime Of Encouragement

Friday, March 27

Luke 19:47-48 (NLT)

“After that, he taught daily in the Temple, but the leading priests, the teachers of religious law, and the other leaders of the people began planning how to kill him. But they could think of nothing, because all the people hung on every word he said.”

Devotion

A big part of Jesus’ earthly ministry was His passion for teaching the word daily; what Jesus taught was simple and profound. People from all walks of life followed His daily guidance and encouragement—from fishermen, tax collectors, and Roman officials to women of questionable reputation. All were willing to leave their way of life to follow the wisdom of their Rabbi (Teacher). The life of Jesus models a life lived in sacrifice and servitude. Today, we will explore these two deeply profound topics. Sacrifice is defined as an act of giving up something valued for the sake of something else regarded as more important or worthy. Jesus did this by leaving His heavenly throne to become a living, normal human being just like us. According to Philippians 2:6-8, though He was God, He did not think of equality with God as something to cling to. Instead, He gave up His divine privileges; He took the humble position of a slave and was born as a human being. When He appeared in human form, He humbled Himself in obedience to God and died a criminal’s death on a cross. This was His mission and life calling: the greatest gift given to mankind.

Servitude is defined as serving others selflessly. As Mark 10:45 states, "For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many." Jesus, despite being the Son of God, chose a life of servitude. He showed us how greatness comes from humility and serving others. We, too, are called to live with the same spirit of servanthood; this means we should put others before ourselves and be willing to go the extra mile to help those in need. By embodying these principles, we grow in our faith and strengthen our connection with God and one another. This is what daily encouragement is all about: seeking to lead a life that exemplifies Jesus, learning to sacrifice our many self-centered motivations and laying them at the feet of Jesus to be fruitful and productive until the last breath of our lives. Pastor Jentezen encouraged us this week with the power of daily; let’s seek to model Jesus’ example by living our own lives to the full in each 24-hour period of our lives.

Today's Prayer

Dear Heavenly Father,

Thank You for the example of Jesus, who gave His life in sacrifice and served others with humility. Teach me to live each day with a heart of servitude, putting others before myself, and encouraging those around me with Your love. Help me to sacrifice my selfish desires and follow the path of obedience and humility that leads to true greatness in Your Kingdom. May my words, actions, and life reflect the life of Christ, and may I bring daily encouragement to others as You have called me to do. In the Name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.

Apply It Today

What is one way you can serve or encourage someone today, even if it requires personal sacrifice? Write it down and intentionally act on it. By practicing daily servitude and encouragement, you mirror Jesus’ example and cultivate a life that blesses others consistently.

Resources

• Watch this message, “God's Hand on Our House”. Discover why seeking His Word and His presence above all else transforms our homes, our hearts, and our lives.

• Step into purpose and make a difference, honor God by serving in His house. Your gifts matter, and there’s a place for you. Sign up today and be part of what God is doing! Serve.