Having A Servant's Heart

When you think of a servant's heart is there a particular person that comes to mind?

Perhaps, initially you think of people like Billy Graham or Mother Teresa, but if I were to ask you to name someone you know personally, what name or names would you list? What makes their servant heart seem extraordinary or meaningful to you? How has their example impacted your life in a positive way?

A servant’s heart means to help others without expectations or selfish ambitions, serving others with the right motivation by putting God's will first.

Philippians 2:1-5 NIV "If you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any fellowship with the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and purpose. Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interest of others. Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus."

I've been blessed over the years to witness so many different people using their spiritual gifts, their time, talents, and abilities. From my own family to coworkers, friends and strangers alike, they served their families and communities in numerous ways. Witnessing their selfless acts of kindness with determination, courage and resolve have given me a desire to serve in a greater capacity in my own life as well.

The saying is true, people are always watching us, and we want to make sure we are being the best example of Christ not only in what we say, but also in what we do. Our actions speak louder than words and today I want to encourage everyone to be intentional whether serving your families, communities and beyond. It may be as simple as holding the door open for a stranger, letting someone cut in front of you who has less groceries than you. It might be paying for someone's meal or coffee or simply spending time with someone who is alone.

Every year I like to have a word that I focus on for the year and this year it's impactful. I want to be impactful in a way that is helpful and encouraging to those around me. This year I want to challenge each of you to be impactful as well. Let's get in the habit of blessing one another starting with our neighbors. If you don't know them, introduce yourself, look for ways to show kindness towards them. Share a meal with them, shovel their driveway or mow their grass, or take them to get groceries etc.

One of the keys to serving is paying attention to where God is asking you to serve. Is there a particular charity, non-profit organization, or event that God is calling you to be a part of, whether He is leading you to donate financially, physically, or otherwise? There are many ways for us to serve, take some time to think about how you can give back to those in need.

Deuteronomy 15:11 NIV

"There will always be poor people in the land. Therefore I command you to be open handed toward your brothers and toward the poor and needy in your land."

Jesus exemplified what a servant's heart should be like. Philippians chapter 2 says we should imitate Christ's humility so today I'd like to share how Jesus defines it for us in Matthew 20:28 and Mark 10:45.

Mark 10:45 NIV

"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."

Today marks the one-year anniversary of the death of a dear friend of ours. Dave was a man who exemplified having a servant's heart. He was always willing to help out last minute when unexpected circumstances arose, he was never afraid to invite people to church, nor was he afraid to hand a Bible to a stranger. In fact, he was confident in doing so. In the past year I am still hearing and learning new stories of where he quietly served in our community.

Matthew 25:40 NIV

The King will reply, 'I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.'

Whether he personally paid for widow yard clean ups, or visited those who were not able to attend church for various health reasons, or when he simply encouraged those who were discouraged. He showed up for people in numerous ways and he did so without others knowing it. He didn't want the accolades or recognition for it. I would bet he heard the words in Matthew 25:21 "Well done, good and faithful servant!" because he made a profound impact on my life in just the short few years I knew him, and to think it all began because we hiked up to Mt Harkness fire lookout tower on Curt's birthday and he invited us to his church. That simple invitation changed the trajectory of our lives. Dave's servant heart followed God's lead and brought numerous people to that church just by his casual conversations with others.

This song MercyMe - I Can Only Imagine (Video) - YouTube makes me think of Dave as I can only imagine what it must have been like for him to see Jesus, face to face one year ago.

Friends, I hope these Bible verses about the Servant’s Heart inspire you to serve others and God with humility, love, and compassion. Make this year 2023 an impactful one!

Written by: Jill Theriault

Crossroads Coaching - @crossroadscoachingongodstime