In Security – Ems HancockSample

Demonstrating Security By Serving

Most food comes with a serving suggestion. The manufacturers provide an illustration. Even on a packet of cornflakes there will usually be a photograph. What is the photo telling us? It is saying, “We suggest that you eat these cornflakes with milk, in a bowl, using a spoon. We have taken a picture for you, so that you know exactly what we mean by the terms, bowl, milk and spoon”!

It couldn’t be simpler. They do not suggest you put the cornflakes on a plate, otherwise that’s what the picture would show. They do not suggest that you serve them with olive oil; they know that would taste vile! The options are narrower, but they are clear about how they will taste the best. Why? Because they are the makers.

Did you know that our lives also have a serving suggestion? The suggestion is that we serve! This will make us happy. Many of us get this wrong. We think, “If only I had enough money to be served by someone else all day, I would feel amazing!” I am sure you would, for a while. But you weren’t designed to sit around and do nothing all day for long.

According to a recent survey done by the United Health Group, 96 percent of people who volunteered said that this enriched their sense of purpose. The same research showed that serving others lowered the volunteer’s stress and helped them feel less lonely.

I believe that the Bible is a bit like the photograph on the food we eat, showing us what we need in order to live well, think well and be well. It shows us the truth that we were made to bless others. Jesus Himself told us that He came not to be served, but to serve (Matthew 20:28).

1 Peter 4:10-11 says, “Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms…”

As we come to a close in this short devotional, I want to encourage you to use what you have to build others up.

Prayer: Father, show me ways I can serve you and bless others. Help me not to make excuses any longer, but to get involved with your mission for my life. Thank you that I can live a confident life with you in charge. Amen.