Called to the Ones: A 5 Day DevotionalSample

Day 5: Hands To Serve The Ones

We are inclined to look at the person with a big platform, with some form of power or with a lavish life and describe them as someone who has achieved greatness.

When Jesus talked about greatness He said, “The greatest among you will be your servant.” (Matthew 23:11).

In a society that bombards us with messages about what it takes to reach greatness, it glorifies the meaning of service by attaching it to a work that is considered more impactful when done for the masses.

But Jesus’ words remind us that the kingdom’s definition of greatness is opposite of the world’s definition. The Kingdom’s definition of greatest is marked with humility seen through how we serve the least of these—not because it’s seen by others.

The greatest example of servanthood is seen in the life and work of Jesus. Philippians tells us that, “Christ, though He was in the form of God…emptied Himself, by taking on the form of a servant…” (Philippians 2:7).

There was nothing showy or glamorous about how He served. In the same way, our posture shouldn’t be to glory in how many people we serve. After all, what good is it to serve the masses but neglect serving the ones who are right in front of us, daily? The ones whom we actually engage in real life?

He’s called us to serve with what we’ve been given, no matter how much or little we have. We are told in 1 Peter that each of us “should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms” (1 Peter 4:10).

This call to serve the ones won’t always be convenient. In fact, it will often confront us with our own selfishness and call us to die to ourselves. It won’t always be seen or acknowledged by others, but we know God sees it and delights in our obedience.

As you walk with God, know that serving others is part of stewarding God’s grace. And God is glorified when we steward His grace well.

Prayer: Father, would You give me the desire to serve my neighbor in the ways You show me? Forgive me for seeking my own glory in how I serve. Help me see the joy of using what I have to serve another and help me seek Your glory above all. Remove the parts of me that want to hold onto my selfishness. I want to be a faithful steward of the measure of grace You’ve given me. In Jesus Name, Amen.