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Jesus modelled the servant heart to all. He demonstrated God’s nature, love and care in his words and deeds towards the most vilified groups in his culture:

• He washed His disciples feet.
• The tax collector was asked publicly to host a dinner party for him and his friends, before joining his ministry.
• The leper was touched and healed.
• The adulteress was saved from stoning and forgiven.
• The prostitutes and poor were welcome and cherished.

As Christians we all have a desire to serve in some way. To serve at home, work, church and in our communities. This a Godly desire.

The question is “do we have a servant heart?” This means not only caring for and helping others, but possessing the right motivation – doing God’s will and being obedient to Him.

Do we have the right attitude while carrying out these tasks? Are we joyful during these times, or are we completing them grudgingly? Do we grumble and whinge about it when we have the opportunity?

Are we seeking praise for what we do? Are we using service as a vehicle to gain brownie points with others and to identify as a good person?

Alternatively, are we busy serving because we struggle with saying “no”, due to inexperience or fear? Are we afraid to disappoint people? Do we want them to like us?

Are we trying to achieve our salvation via good works? It is important to note that this is impossible. We are saved by God’s grace and faith in Jesus – not by works:

For it is by grace [God’s remarkable compassion and favour drawing you to Christ] that you have been saved [actually delivered from judgement and given eternal life] through faith. And this [salvation] is not of yourselves [not through your own effort], but it is the [undeserved, gracious] gift of God

Eph 2:8 (AMP)

When there is so much need, do we say yes to everything because we think that is the Christian thing to do? If so, we will have little in the way of boundaries and are likely to end up with what I call “the craziness of the busies”. So busy doing, that we don’t have quality time to spend with God.

When we take on too many things how effective are we anyway? Often, we burn ourselves out. We must take time to consider whether our actions are keeping others from opportunities to walk in their calling. When we say “no”, space and freedom are created for others to rise and serve.

The bible says:

Come to me all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light

Matt 11:28-30 (NKJV)

Have we ever thought of seeking God’s opinion about what He wants us to do, instead of rushing in and trying to do everything? Shall we consider stopping for a while, slowing down and spending time with God. When we hang out with Him and tune ourselves into His heart we will find rest and Godly direction. He can reveal our calling/s to us and show us the way forward.

When Holy Spirit is in charge of our yes, there will be a lightness, a joy and vitality in our spirit. A rightness we can feel. Co-labouring with Holy Spirit has has great benefits. He will provide His strength, wisdom, creativity and continued guidance. He brings the resources of heaven to every situation.

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