Christian Service

Early in this century a London newspaper carried an advertisement that read: “Men wanted for hazardous darkness, and constant danger. Safe return doubtful. Honor and recognition in case of success.” The ad, signed by famous Arctic explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton, brought inquiries from thousands of men. Commenting on this in his book Be Faithful, Warren W. Wiersbe said, “If Jesus Christ had advertised for workers, the announcement might have read something like this: ‘Men and women wanted for difficult task of helping to build My church. You will often be misunderstood, even by those working with you. You will face constant attack from an invisible enemy. You may not see the results of your labor, and your full reward will not come till after all your work is completed. It may cost you your home, your ambitions, even your life.’” - D.C.E. Our Daily Bread, June 18

If such an ad was placed in your local paper, would you be tempted to answer the ad? If you are a disciple of Christ today, you might be experiencing some of the affects of being a Christian and serving the Lord in building His one and only church. The Bible reminds us that we are to Serve the Lord with gladness...” (Psalm 100:2a). Even if we are or could experience such conditions, we are to do it with gladness. Peter wrote, Yet if anyone suffer as a Christian, let him not be ashamed, but let him glorify God in this matter (1 Peter 4:16). Peter also said, For it is better, if it is the will of God, to suffer for doing good than for doing evil (1 Peter 3:17). Our service to God should be without repose. It should be a task that is met head on with anticipation, excitement and zeal. Could we ever do a better service in this lifetime than serve the Lord with gladness?

Are we giving the Lord our very best when it comes to service? Are we gladly attending all the worship services? Are we getting as much as we possibly can out of our singing to the Lord? Are we getting the most out of prayers as they are lifted up to the heavenly Father? Are we understanding and getting more out the Lord's Supper each time we participate in it? Are we getting more out of the collection that is taken up each and every Lord's day? Are we gleaning as much as we should from the preaching we are hearing? And are we getting more out of the Bible Study we attend? These are very pertinent questions that need absolute answers.

God's Blessings!

Eddie