Called to serve

March 26, 2007

By Dorothy Rugg

Some of the dictionary meanings for the word serve are “to be of use, to attend to, to furnish or supply with something needed or desired, to be of help.”

Throughout Scripture we are called to serve the Lord. We are to do so with all our heart, soul, mind and strength (Deuteronomy 6:5). We are to serve the Lord with gladness (Psalm 100:2). We must serve God only (Exodus 34:14).

What comes to your mind when you hear the word serve? Does it bother you or delight you? How can we serve God with all our heart? Does it mean going to another country as a missionary? Does it mean just talking about God and nothing else?

When I consider my service to God, I see it as offering my life to God, allowing myself to be available for what God wants of me. Whether it is washing dishes, ironing, going to the store, talking with people, working at my job as a secretary, or even sitting on the beach reading a book. Whatever I may be doing, my life should be serving God and His people.

The key to joyful service is found in love. It is by love we serve; it is by love we esteem others; it is by love we share God’s love.

Serving does not mean we are doormats to others’ whims. Serving is allowing the Holy Spirit to guide me and teach me and live in me in order to make my life the most productive it can be.

Take time to look up these Scriptures: Matthew 4:10; 20:28; John 12:26; Romans 12:11; Galatians 5:13; Ephesians 6:7; Hebrews 9:14; 1 Peter 4:10.

How are you doing at serving?

James and Dorothy Rugg pastor Mill City Assembly of God in Dalton, Pa.