SERVING
SERVING
In those days when the number of disciples was increasing, the Hellenistic Jews among them complained against the Hebraic Jews because their widows were being overlooked in the daily distribution of food. So the Twelve gathered all the disciples together and said, “It would not be right for us to neglect the ministry of the word of God in order to wait on tables. Brothers and sisters, choose seven men from among you who are known to be full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will turn this responsibility over to them and will give our attention to prayer and the ministry of the word.” This proposal pleased the whole group. They chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit; also Philip, Procorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolas from Antioch, a convert to Judaism. They presented these men to the apostles, who prayed and laid their hands on them. So the word of God spread. The number of disciples in Jerusalem increased rapidly, and a large number of priests became obedient to the faith. —Acts 6:1-7
The early church in this situation sought the Lord in who was to do what ministry. Leadership was to be about the ministry of the Word of God and prayer. It was not their responsibility to “wait on tables.” This is not to say they would not do that, but their focus was to be elsewhere.
The whole group discussed this and agreed that others should be chosen to “wait on tables.” The group chose the seven and they were prayed for and served in this area. Because of this ministry delegation the Word of God spread and the number of disciples increased rapidly.
Are you and I serving where the Lord would have us serving to be of most benefit to the church? Where are you serving? Are you serving? Oh, that we would be serving where the Lord Jesus would have us serve. So be it! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0rznoe3zKxM
Dear Father, help me to be the servant You desire and to serve where You would have me serve. May this be so in the power of Your Holy Spirit and in the authority of Jesus. May it be so.