Devotional: A Thankful Church Serves

Written By Islands Christian Church

Serving others is a fundamental aspect of what it means to follow Jesus. True greatness in the kingdom of God is not measured by power or position but by humility and a willingness to serve. Jesus Himself modeled this by washing the feet of His disciples, healing the sick, feeding the hungry, and ultimately giving His life as a ransom for many. He did not come to be served, but to serve.

In today’s world, service can often feel like an obligation rather than an opportunity. We may assume that our contributions are too small to matter or that someone else is better suited for the task. However, God has uniquely designed each of us with gifts and abilities to play a vital role in His kingdom. Serving is not just about meeting needs—it is about transformation. When we serve, we reflect the love of Christ, and in doing so, we draw closer to Him and to one another.

Serving also shifts our perspective. Instead of being consumed with our own struggles and desires, we begin to see the needs of others. This shift leads to deeper compassion, a stronger sense of community, and a greater appreciation for the work God is doing around us. It allows us to live out our faith in a tangible way, demonstrating love through action rather than just words. When we step out and serve, we experience the joy and fulfillment that comes from being part of something bigger than ourselves.

Each act of service, no matter how small, is significant. Whether it’s greeting someone with a warm smile, preparing a meal for a neighbor in need, or mentoring a young believer, every action done in love has eternal impact. As followers of Jesus, we are called to be His hands and feet, showing the world what it means to love selflessly. Let us embrace this calling with joyful hearts, knowing that in serving others, we are serving Christ Himself.

Scripture

  • Mark 10:45 – "For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many." (NIV)

  • 1 Corinthians 12:27 – "Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it." (NIV)

  • Philippians 2:5-7 – "In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness." (NIV)

  • Matthew 25:40 – "The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’" (NIV)

Questions for Reflection

  1. When you think about serving, do you see it as an obligation or as an opportunity to grow closer to Jesus?

  2. How has someone’s act of service impacted your life? How did it reflect the love of Christ to you?

  3. What gifts or talents has God given you that you can use to serve others?

  4. What’s one practical step you can take this week to serve—either in the church or in your community?

  5. How does serving shift your focus from self to others, and how does that impact your relationship with God?

Prayer
Father, thank You for the example of Jesus, who came not to be served but to serve. Help me to see opportunities to serve those around me, both inside and outside the church. Give me a heart that is eager to love and serve as You have called me to. Let my gratitude for all You have done be reflected in my actions. Use my hands, my words, and my time to bring glory to You and to bless others. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Additional Resources

Let’s be a church that doesn’t just talk about thankfulness—we live it out through serving. If you’re not yet serving, take that next step today!

Islands Christian Church http://islandschristian.org
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Devotional: A Thankful Church Gives