Thank you for visiting. We trust that you have enjoyed reading our articles.
Service is Ministry
“Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.” (Galatians 6:10 NIV)
We live in a self-serving secular world in which people act to serve their own self interests. I had a dear friend that has gone on to Glory but on earth he worked as an economist. He claimed that the entire system of economic theory is so purely deductive that everything in it can be deduced from one essential axiom. The rationality axiom states that “a rational person maximizes his/her utility.” Some economists will substitute “utility” with “self-interest,” or “well-being.” This statement has often been interpreted to mean that the pursuit of self-interest is the only thing that is done by rational economic people and that anything else is irrational. This theory has been criticized by some economists, but it still raises an interesting point. If we serve others are we acting in an irrational manner or are we displaying true leadership, as modeled by Jesus, by being a servant leader?
In my opinion, service to others is the heart of Christianity and the visible sign of a disciple. We can give our service to God and the Bible refers to this as “storing up treasure in Heaven.” When we give our talents and resources to others are we not engaging in Christian ministry? Each of us was made for ministry. Each of us has been given unique talents to build up the Body of Christ. “We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us…” (Romans 12:6). Not all of us are called to ministry or capable of physical labor. However, these are just a few of the numerous possible ministries. I once heard of a woman that had a unique ministry of prayer. Each day she opened up her local newspaper and prayed for the newborn babies and for the newly married couples. When asked why she did not pray for those listed in the obituaries she responded. I rejoice for them for they have entered into eternal glory for our loving God. Ministry can also be listening to others that are having a tough day, making it known that your house is always open to talk with those hurting. God has gifted us all with the ability to smile. A ministry of smiling can have a tremendous positive impact on others.
Let’s return back to the economic discussion. We all know the basic economic principle of supply and demand. For most goods or services, there is a finite supply. However, it is important to realize that our “demands” (e.g., prayers and petitions) on God can never exceed His infinite supply of grace. In short, nothing can separate us from the love of God (Romans 8:35-39). So we are justified in Christ Jesus and have the confidence that He goes with us as we go to do ministry that he has prepared for us. “For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them” (Ephesians 2:10).
So, why should we do ministry? The Bible says, “This service you do not only helps the needs of God’s people, it also brings many more thanks to God. It is a proof of your faith. Many people will praise God because you obey the Good News of Christ—the gospel you say you believe—and because you freely share with them and with all others” (2 Corinthians 9:12-13). Ministry is fulfilling The Great Commission. How you engage in ministry is a process of constant discernment.
Prayer: Dear God, We seek to share your love with others. We desire to have a meaningful ministry that will glorify your name. We need your help each day to identify opportunities for ministry. Equip us with Your love and wisdom and we walk with the peace that surely you will be with us until the end of the age.
Meet the Author
Todd Shupe is a Men’s Ministry Specialist through the General Commission of United Methodist Men and is in training to be a Certified Lay Minister through the Louisiana Conference of the United Methodist Church. He currently serves as the President of the Baton Rouge District of United Methodist Men and is a Board Member for Gulf South Men and serves on the Action Team for The Kingdom Group. He is a volunteer for the Walk to Emmaus, Grace Camp, and Iron Sharpens Iron. Todd resides in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.
We welcome your comments below.
Liked this post?
Read more below or search for more topics...
-
What Motivates You?
What Motivates You? “All a person’s ways seem pure to them, but motives are weighed by the Lord” (Proverbs 16:2 NIV). We typically won’t do anything unless we are motivated to do so. We take action based on a variety of motivations. Our motivations can be positive or negative. Some of the common negative motivators include pride, anger, revenge, entitlement, or the desire for approval or to impress others. These motivations are clearly negative and come from a sinful flesh and do not honor God (Romans 8:8). Nothing is hidden from our Lord. He even evaluates the motivation of our hearts when we give offerings to... -
From Flooded Out To Flooded With Faith: A First-Hand Recollection
From Flooded Out To Flooded With Faith: A First-Hand Recollection In this blog I would like to explore the effects that the 2016 flooding in Baton Rouge had on my home and why it only strengthened his faith in the end. As I type this on August 13, 2017, I reflect on the one year anniversary of the "great" flood of 2016 that damaged so many homes in the Baton Rouge, Louisiana area – mine included. In my humble opinion there was nothing “great” about the flood; it was a terrible event for all and resulted in hardship for many.The “great”... -
The Best New Year’s Resolution
The Best New Year’s Resolution “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—His good, pleasing and perfect will” (Romans 12:2 NIV). January is the time for New Year’s resolutions, right? I am considering joining a gym and need to get in better physical shape. You may seek to spend more time with family, find a new job, etc. All of these are fine goals. I read a recent article that indicated that most New Year’s resolutions will be abandoned...