SERVING - Because He saved us

For the past few weeks, we have had a chance to check our hearts. Are we doing because we love the Lord and want to glorify Him? Last week we saw that where our treasure is, our hearts are also (Matthew 6:21). This was a check for us about where we spend our money and our time. But our offering does not stop there. Two weeks ago, Romans 12:1 challenged us to give our bodies- our whole lives-  to Jesus as our worship of Him. Today, we see that these two disciplines: Worship and Giving really result in serving.

Doers Serve.

But be careful, friend!

First, if you are not, you might think that serving earns you favor and righteousness in Gods sight. Make no mistake. We do not earn our salvation. We cannot earn Gods favor and grace. He freely gives those things to us because of Jesus. We serve because we love God are grateful that He saved us. Jesus gave His life for us so we offer ours in return.

Second, if you are not careful, you might think that serving means busyness. You might find yourself always doing- finding anything and everything you can do to pitch in and help. God does not want you serving for servings sake. God wants you serving so you can be a vessel for His power and the Gospel. Through this, your life and the lives of others will be changed.

Ephesians 2:10 says, For we are Gods masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.

We will see this week that God designed you as a vessel that is better suited for certain service. You have been given gifts, talents, and abilities that intentionally wire you for the good works God planned for you long ago.

Lastly friend, be careful because if you are not, you might think that serving is optional. You might leave it until you have time, until you or your kids are older, or until you are better equipped and trained to serve. A living sacrifice does not hop off the altar until it is ready. It is faithfully submitted and follows God daily, serving Him in each and every step along the way.

As a member of Christs body, you have been given a role that only you were made to fill. The body of Christ will limp along incomplete and unsupported if you choose not to fill your role.

This week, spend time seeking Gods plan for how you should serve. Then, do it - No excuses!

SCRIPTURE
Ephesians 2:10 | For we are Gods masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.

1 Samuel 12:24 | But be sure to fear the LORD and faithfully serve him. Think of all the wonderful things he has done for you.

1 Corinthians 15:56-58 | For sin is the sting that results in death, and the law gives sin its power. But thank God! He gives us victory over sin and death through our Lord Jesus Christ. So, my dear brothers and sisters, be strong and immovable. Always work enthusiastically for the Lord, for you know that nothing you do for the Lord is ever useless.

Romans 12:1 | And so, dear brothers and sisters, I plead with you to give your bodies to God because of all he has done for you. Let them be a living and holy sacrifice - the kind he will find acceptable. This is truly the way to worship him.


DISCUSSION

1. What does it mean to serve God? What are some ways to serve Him? 
2. Why do we serve God? 
3. What excuses do people make about serving God? Are you guilty of making any of these yourself?
4. Romans 12:1 tells us to live as sacrifices to God - this means each day we choose to live for Him. What might you have to sacrifice to serve God? 
5. Are you serving God right now? If not, why? If you are, in what ways?