A wise person once said, “If the approval of people is my test for success I would live in a continual state of anxious uncertainty. But if I serve in the power of the Holy Spirit, I can rest assured He is at work ahead of me, with me and after me”. Today’s verses illustrate this very topic, that we should search deep within our hearts on how to view our everyday tasks, as Christ followers. To meet each day with gratitude, striving to excel in our work environment, personal life, and service opportunities offered through the local church with humble hearts, knowing that we are promised something much higher and much brighter than any earthly compensation that can be obtained.  

This same message is resonated in Matthew 20:26-28, where our Messiah Jesus teaches his disciples not to aspire to be great among men but to serve with humble humility. Jesus set the example for all us to think outside the normal social standard, where recognition is highly sought after. Philippians 2:5-11 says, think as Christ Jesus thought. Jesus has always been as God is. But he did not hold to his rights as God. He put aside everything that belonged to him and made himself the same as a servant who is owned by someone. He became human by being born as a man. After he became a man, he gave up his important place and obeyed by dying on a cross. Because of this, God lifted Jesus high above everything else. He gave him a name that is greater than any other name. So, when the name of Jesus is spoken, everyone in heaven and on earth and under the earth will bow down before him. And every tongue will say Jesus Christ is Lord. Everyone will give honor to God the Father.

God exalted Jesus and gave him the name above all names, but Jesus attained this greatness by humbling himself as a servant, willing to suffer unto death to save humanity. Such is expected from all of Jesus followers, to bear the burden of servitude in humble obedience. We might not be called to die on a cross. But we all have been called to sacrifice time, talents, (earnings) for the greater good of God's Kingdom. What an honor to serve as a witness to our Lord Jesus to represent him in our sphere of reach for God’s Glory!

John 14:4 says, “remain in me, as I also remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me.”

Dear Heavenly Father,

I thank You for Your example and teaching, what a privilege You have given us all to live a life of servitude just like Jesus did in his earthly ministry. I ask Your forgiveness knowing that I have not listened closely to Your calling for my life, and the sensitivity to understand what Your Holy Spirit is asking me to do. I pray for Your direction and leadership for opening doors of opportunities to honor You with my talents and skills. To be Your hands, voice, and feet for a time like this. Help me to take my cross and walk towards You and Your will for my life. To be an example for others to follow. In the Name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.

Based on today’s verses, take the time to re-evaluate your service opportunities, networking with like minded believers who share the same common values and goals in life to enhance your outreach. Ask yourself the following questions? What are you willing to sacrifice for the greater good of Jesus’ Global or Local Ministry? Are you willing to be led by the Holy Spirit to serve with humbleness? Are there areas of service opportunities that you are feeling led to by the Holy Spirit? 

Take the time to pray over these topics and try to hear God's direction for your life.