You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the sinful nature; rather, serve one another in love. For the whole law is fulfilled in one word: “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” Galatians 5:13-14 NASB
We’re all familiar with the concept of pastors, priests, missionaries, and other church leaders being “called” by God to serve in a certain way. But the truth is we have all been called to serve God by serving others. We aren’t saved because we serve, but we are saved to serve.
In these three sentences in the middle of the letter to the Galatians we see three important truths about serving:
First, the reason and foundation for our service is that we have been saved and called. Paul says, “You were called to be free.” Our service flows from the freedom we have received from Jesus. Until we are saved and allow our relationship to set us free from our hurts, our enslaving habits, and our struggles, we are too wrapped up in our issues to think much about others. Without forgiveness, it is easy to serve from the wrong motives. If we serve from obligation or to impress others, or because we think we must in order to be okay with God, it typically ends in bitterness or burnout. Serving from gratitude because you are saved and called is an adventure and privilege.
Second, the reason we don’t serve is universal: selfishness. Paul warns us not to indulge ourselves. Think about why you don’t serve, or if you are a leader, what are the reasons people give for not serving when they are asked? The most frequent reason is that we don’t have the time or energy to serve others. We are using our time and energy almost exclusively on our own agendas, dreams, and pleasures. Only a tiny percentage of people use their lives to serve others.
What’s the motive for serving? The third truth Paul shares is that our motive for service is love. God is far more interested in why you serve than how big your talent is. He’s looking inside to see your heart, your motive, and your willingness. You are most like Jesus when you’re serving others.
- How can you remind yourself of all you have to inspire gratitude?
- How did you serve on Sunday? What was your motive?
- Make a quick list of five things God has done for you that inspire serving from gratitude. Live it out today.