To Serve and to Give

Pride wants strokes—lots of them. It loves to get the credit, to be mentioned, to receive glory, to have people ooh and ahh. Ideally, your superiors will be thoughtful people who give you the credit you deserve, but, regrettably, that will not always occur. And your pride will need to be held in check.

Feeling Used and Unappreciated

For a servant named Gehazi, working alongside a high-profile, greatly respected prophet like Elisha was a privilege. But at the same time, it was a particular position that brought about unique temptations.

Some Common Misconceptions, Part 2

Yesterday, we learned that God’s servants have no special powers in themselves. Thinking they do is our first misconception. Our adequacy comes from God alone. Another misconception is that servants don’t struggle with everyday problems.

Some Common Misconceptions, Part 1

Does it surprise you that being a servant of God is perilous? To some folks, serving others sounds as safe and harmless as a poached egg on a plate. What could possibly be perilous about it? Plenty. As we examine Paul’s words in the fourth chapter of 2 Corinthians, I’d like to suggest several familiar misconceptions regarding servanthood.

The Perils of a Servant

Whoever takes the time to investigate the evidence that led to such a bizarre atrocity soon discovers that the man at the top (who claimed to be a servant of God) fell into the trap that has ruined many a strong, natural leader.

Personal Response to Our Role

Since God has called us to be His salt-and-light servants in a bland, dark society, it will be necessary for us to commit ourselves to the task before us. Remember, salt must not lose its taste, and light must not be hidden. In order to keep us on target, let me suggest three statements that declare and describe how to fulfill this role.

Rewards for Being Different

For the past few days, we have observed the promises Jesus made in “The Beatitudes.” We are only halfway through the list, but it’s a good place to stop and summarize what we have seen in this inspired portrait thus far. Jesus is describing how to be different, how to be His unique servant in a hostile, wicked world. He honors particular character traits and offers special rewards for each.

The Light of the World

Does it seem important to you that Christ calls us what He called Himself? “I am the Light of the world” (John 8:12). “You are the light of the world” (Matthew 5:14). Servants of Christ shine with His light in a society that is hopelessly lost, left to itself. Now, answer two questions . . .

The Salt of the Earth, Part 2

Think about these three practical, positive aspects of salt. First, salt is shaken and sprinkled . . . not poured. It must be spread out. Too much salt ruins food. A good reminder for Christians to spread out rather than stay huddled all together. Second, salt adds flavor . . .

The Salt of the Earth, Part 1

There is an odor that accompanies decay that’s like nothing else. Down in Houston where I was raised, we were only fifty miles from the seaport city of Galveston. Delicious, fresh seafood was available in numerous restaurants in that area—and still is. But there were other ways we used to use seafood, especially shrimp.

Category Archives: Christian Living