For he that in these things serveth Christ is acceptable to God, and approved of men (Romans 14:18).
The Word of God shows us clearly what the message of Christ is and what your focus should be in serving the Lord. At the end of all things, what truly matters is what He thinks about your service in the Kingdom, not what others might think or say about you. His opinion is what truly counts. Is He pleased with your work?
It’s important to know that everything you’re doing is according to His will, purpose and desire. It’s not enough that you’re doing what you think or assume is right; it has to be what He wants and how He wants it. Recall what He said to Moses when he was about to build the Tabernacle, “…See…that thou make all things according to the pattern shewed to thee in the mount” (Hebrews 8:5).
Follow the prescribed order as revealed in His Word. If you’re sincere, He’ll open your heart, mind and understanding to the Scriptures and show you how to serve Him and serve Him correctly. This is very important because even in the Scriptures, you’d observe certain individuals who walked closely with God but sometimes missed the mark.
For instance, the apostles initially thought the Gospel was only for the Jews and overlooked the salvation of the Gentiles (Acts 10-11). How could they have made such a significant mistake? But their correction came through the very Scriptures they thought they understood. This should be a profound lesson for us.
If the apostles could be wrong despite their knowledge, then we have to seek deeper understanding to ensure we align with God’s will. And thanks be unto God; He said, “... every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened” (Matthew 7:8). If you seek to serve Him rightly, He’ll show you from His Word how to do it the most excellent way.
Don’t serve Him as you choose; serve Him as He desires. The purpose of your service and the manner of your work and walk with Him should align with His will. Seek His thoughts, understand His desires, and walk in the light of His Word. The apostle Paul, in Romans 1:9, said, "For God is my witness, whom I serve with my spirit in the gospel of His Son...." That’s the way; it’s service in the Spirit, by the Spirit and through the Spirit.
PRAYER
Dear Father, thank you for opening my heart and mind to your will. I serve you with my spirit, in the gospel of Jesus Christ, to live in intimate communion with you every day. My life, resources, thoughts, words and actions are a continual offering of worship, reflecting your glory and purpose, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.
FURTHER STUDY:
Romans 1:9 AMPC
