“Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labour in the Lord is not in vain.” – 1 Corinthians 15:58 (NIV)
Top athletes do not experience greatness by choice. They train regularly, not just for personal glory but for the love of the game and the pride of representing their team or country. They perform with all their heart, inspiring young athletes and bringing joy to fans. Our service to God and the church should have the same passion and dedication, striving to give our best to benefit the family of God.
Service to God’s people and the local church requires us to be fully committed. In Matthew 22:37-39, Jesus emphasises the greatest commandments: “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind… and Love your neighbour as yourself.”
Loving God with all our hearts naturally extends to loving and serving others. Your faith in the Lord Jesus should always be followed by love for the saints (1 John 1:9). Our service should reflect our love for God and His people.
Jesus sets a perfect example of what this service looks like. In John 13:14-15, Jesus washed the disciples’ feet and said, “Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet. I have set an example, that you should do as I have done for you.” This act of humility and service shows us that no task is too small or insignificant when done in love and obedience to God.
Serving with all our hearts means using our God-given gifts and talents to their fullest potential. Romans 12:6-8 encourages us to use our different gifts according to the grace given to each of us. Whether it’s teaching, encouraging, giving, leading, or showing mercy, we are called to do it diligently and cheerfully. By doing so, we contribute to the growth and edification of the body of Christ.
Serving God’s people and the local church also involves perseverance and steadfastness. Galatians 6:9 admonishes us not to be weary in doing good. Serving wholeheartedly means continuing to serve even when it’s challenging or when recognition is not immediate. It’s about trusting that our labour in the Lord is not in vain (1 Corinthians 15:58).
In essence, serving with all our hearts is about being fully engaged and invested in the work of the kingdom. It’s about recognising that our service is a form of worship, an expression of our love for God, and a way to impact the lives of others.
As you serve, remember to do so with joy, knowing that you are part of something greater than yourself. Let every act of service be a reflection of your love for God and a testimony of His love for others.
Bible Reading Plan: Acts 11