“…not lagging in diligence, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord;” – Romans 12:11 (NKJV)
The popularity of remote work has opened the door for individuals to work for two or more companies simultaneously, often dividing their time and allegiance between multiple roles. While this may be seen as a commendable display of multitasking and time management, our service to God cannot be approached this way. Unlike balancing multiple jobs, our devotion to God requires undivided attention and full submission.
From the anchor text, the Greek word ‘douleuō’ is used for ‘serving,’ which means to submit in obedience to a master or to be a slave. This implies that serving God means being His servant, requiring you to submit fully to the Lord and not act according to your emotions and will. A servant is characterised by obedience to their master, and as God’s servants, our service involves a daily commitment to obedience (1 Corinthians 7:22; 1 Peter 2:18; Titus 2:9). Jesus Christ provides a perfect example of this submission (Philippians 2:5-8).
Nevertheless, while we recognise that we are called to a life of service, how we fulfil that calling is of great importance. Deuteronomy 10:12 outlines God’s requirements for serving Him, emphasising that our service should be carried out with all our heart and soul. Similarly, Romans 12:1 presents the image of offering our bodies as a living sacrifice, which signifies being ‘dead to self.’ This powerful analogy highlights that true service to God involves setting aside personal desires and dedicating ourselves fully to His will.
Another crucial aspect of our relationship with God is providing undivided service (Matthew 4:10). Our devotion to God must be exclusive, without sharing allegiance or obedience with anyone or anything else. Jesus illustrated this point by comparing our service to God with our relationship to money (Luke 16:1-13). This analogy does not condemn earning a living honestly but emphasises that our hearts should be entirely dedicated to God without any competing loyalties.
Most importantly, our service to God is demonstrated through our service to His people (Galatians 5:13; 1 Peter 4:10–11). Serving God involves actively contributing to His community using our gifts and talents. God expects us to honour Him by humbly serving others (Philippians 2:3-4).
Dear believer, you have been saved to serve God and His people with complete devotion and no other allegiance. Therefore, present yourself wholeheartedly to serve, love, and please the Master with unwavering commitment and submission.
Bible Reading Plan: Acts 20-21