Serving

5-14-2009

Christ came to the earth to serve, not be served. This is quite a contrast from the “kings” of the world. They walk around being bowed down to, gold crowns on their head, and servants awaiting their every need. Christ taught us the importance of not only serving others, but genuinely caring for others.

In Philippians chapter 2 Paul says, “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others.” I wish every person on earth did what this passage calls us to do. Instead, we live in a world of selfish motives and desires. Some people will do anything if it benefits them, with little or no consideration of the others affected.

In verse 5, Paul says, “Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus.” We cannot control others, nor should we try. I’ve believe we should control what we can control, and one of the most important things we can control is our attitude. We need to have a Christ-like attitude of humble service. In other words, serve others because that’s exactly what Christ did. Do not serve others for the recognition in may bring. In fact, the bible tells us to give with a humble heart. When you give your time, money, service, and etc. do so without telling anyone. Serve to serve!

Verses 10-11 says, “that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” What Paul is telling us is you will meet your maker. You can deny him all you want, but you will answer to him, and everyone will recognize that he is God!

Application:
1. Read Philippians 2: 1-11
2. Do you find joy in serving? If not why?