Listen to this devotion
Begin with God … So We Can Serve Him
In the Word
How will I serve God?
“‘Truly, I say to you, as you did to one of the least of these my brothers, you did to me’” (Matthew 25:40b).
Of the Word
What is your favorite way to be of service to others? What type of serving do you find most difficult to do? Comparing lists with a friend might reveal that what brings joy to one is pure drudgery to another!
God gives His people some specific directions about serving Him. “And now, Israel, what does the Lord your God require of you, but to fear the Lord your God, to walk in all his ways, to love him, to serve the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul” (Deuteronomy 10:12). Serve the Lord with gladness! (Psalm 100:2a).
Loving service often brings joy to the giver as well as the receiver. However, when we’re feeling less than joyful and willing, remembering Jesus’ words may provide an attitude adjustment. “Truly, I say to you, as you did to one of the least of these my brothers, you did to me” (Matthew 25:40b).
Service to God and others is thanksgiving and thanks-living, a joyful response for all that God has done for us!
Walking with my Lord
Dear Lord, I thank and praise You for being the God of my life. Thank You for providing opportunities to serve You. Help me to serve with joy, showing an attitude that reflects Your love to others. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.
Mustard Seed: Begin with God. Authors: Marcia Gomulka, Dcs. Betty Knapp, Myrna Lou Meyer. 26/28 ©2007 Lutheran Women’s Missionary League, 801 Seminary Place Ste. L010, St. Louis, MO 63105. www.lwml.org
Scripture quotations are from The ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
