Spiritual Practices: Service
In a world is rather self-serving, biblical service stands as a radical, countercultural act. It’s not just about volunteering at church or helping out when it's convenient—it’s about living a life that reflects Christ’s selfless love.
The Bible calls us to serve not out of obligation, but out of a heart transformed by Christ. Whether through acts of kindness, generosity, or humility, serving is a reflection of our faith and a response to God's love for us. Let’s explore what biblical service looks like, why it matters, and how we can live it out daily.
The Heart of Service: Serving in Love
True service begins with love. The Bible reminds us that love must be sincere, and through love, we are called to serve one another. Service is not about seeking recognition or fulfilling a duty—it’s about reflecting the love that God has poured into us.
Paul writes in Galatians 5:13, “You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love.”
When we serve with love, our actions reflect the heart of Christ. Whether it’s providing a meal for a struggling friend, comforting someone in need, or simply offering a listening ear, love should be the driving force behind our service.
This is the kind of service that challenges us in family or at work. We serve meals, we mow the lawn, we make photocopies for a meeting and offer ideas (that are rarely heard?). This is part of the service that we are called to daily.
Serving as an Act of Worship
Service is more than just an external action—it’s an offering to God. Romans 12:1 urges us to offer our bodies as “a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship.”
When we serve others, we are ultimately serving God. Jesus made this clear in Matthew 25:35-40, where He said that whatever we do for the least of our brothers and sisters, we do for Him.
Choosing to serve is a declaration of our commitment to follow God. It is an act of worship that honors Him and demonstrates our trust in His ways.
The Humility of Service, Jesus’ Example
Jesus, our King, modeled the ultimate example of servant-hearted leadership. He didn’t come to be served, but to serve. In Mark 10:45, Jesus said, “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.”
True biblical service requires humility. It means putting others first, even when it’s inconvenient. It means doing the unseen, thankless tasks, knowing that God sees and values them. Jesus Himself washed His disciples' feet—an act of humility and love
Humility is not a popular word. It is one that I have begun to think of not as lowering myself, but lifting others up. They are at my level, or perhaps “higher”. I don’t want to think of others as below or beneath me. I don’t want to consider any actions “beneath” me. Yet humility is about seeing others with value. Jesus saw the value of others and served them.
Serving Others
Serving doesn’t have to be complicated or hard. Sometimes, the simplest acts of kindness make the greatest impact. Here are a few ways we can serve daily:
Help those in need – Whether financially, emotionally, or physically, meeting others’ needs is a way to reflect God’s love (Proverbs 19:17).
Encourage and uplift – A kind word or a thoughtful note can make a huge difference (Hebrews 13:16).
Support a friend or neighbor – Offer to help with errands, babysitting, or household tasks (Proverbs 3:27). Just last weekend I was wondering if people still welcome folks to the neighborhood with a plate of cookies. Or is it a challenge with dietary restrictions (me included!)?
Live generously – Give of your time, resources, and talents without expecting anything in return (Luke 6:38).
Be a listening ear – Sometimes, people just need someone to listen and pray with them. I need to stop thinking about how to respond and just listen in the moment!
The parable of the Good Samaritan (*Luke 10:25-37*) reminds us that our “neighbor” is anyone in need. Our service should extend beyond those we’re comfortable with—it should reach anyone God places in our path.
Conclusion
Serving others not only blesses them but also brings blessings into our own lives. Jesus Himself said, “It is more blessed to give than to receive” (Acts 20:35).
When we serve with a willing heart, God sees and rewards our efforts (Hebrews 6:10). While our motivation should never be selfish gain, the joy and fulfillment that come from serving are undeniable. It strengthens our faith, deepens our relationships, and brings us closer to God.
Luke 6:38 promises, “Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap.” When we serve with generosity, God provides abundantly.
The Bible makes it clear: serving is not just something we do, but a way of life. It is a reflection of Christ’s love, a response to God’s goodness, and a path to true joy.
So, how can you serve someone this week? Drop a line below in the comments.
