SERVE FOR THE STRENGTH OF OTHERS

Well, my brothers and sisters, let’s summarize. When you meet together, one will sing, another will teach, another will tell some special revelation God has given, one will speak in tongues, and another will interpret what is said. But everything that is done must strengthen all of you. —I Corinthians 14:26

Why am I part of a local church? Just to say I attended on Sunday morning or whenever it meets? So I go and try to get something or feel something, some “felt need” or emotional fulfillment? Do I go to seek favor with God or look good before man? Do I go just to be part of a group and to meet some social need I have? Do I go for the donuts and coffee? Do I go to be entertained? Do I go because of the youth groups, small groups, children’s ministry or other ministry that I want my children or myself to be a part of?

The above verse says I should use my giftedness to strengthen others. I am to be serving others that they might be strengthened. When was the last time I served for that very purpose? Do I preach God’s Word because I want others to be strengthened in Him? Do I serve with the music ministry because I want others strengthened in Him? So I serve in a small group because I want others strengthened in Him? Am I an usher, deacon or elder because I want others strengthened in Him? Am I involved in ministry of any sort because I want others strengthened in Him? How are you and I serving with the giftedness God has given us that others can be strengthened in Him? Here’s a question I ponder— Am I serving the Lord Jesus Christ out of loving gratitude for what He has done for me that I might be used by Him to strengthen others? Oh, may it be so!

Dear Father, may I be a vessel serving in the loving authority of the Lord Jesus Christ that others would be strengthened. Oh, that this would be done in the power of the Holy Spirit.