Serving God and Others: Devotions From Time of GraceSample

You’re doing it for him

Everyday question #25: A friend says, “I know I should help out at church, and sometimes I do volunteer, but I’d really rather be doing something else. Anything else. How can I get my joy in service back when my selfish side would rather be playing video games?”

Well, this guy gets points for honesty. But it does indeed sound like it’s time for a reality check. Pinch yourself, buddy. What you just pinched is sinful flesh. It’s the reason why the Son of God had to become like you so that he could absorb in himself the punishment that your sins deserved (including the sin of viewing service to God as an annoying irritation instead of a sacred privilege).

Here’s what Jesus’ work accomplished for you: forgiveness for your many sins and a shine put on your life so dazzling that you will look like a saint on judgment day. Here is how your service appears to the King on that day: “Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world. . . . Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me’” (Matthew 25:34,40).

Serve the Lord with gladness. Everything you do for others in Jesus’ name you are really doing for him.