Strive to Serve

In Daily Devotional by Paul Fraser

Theme of the Week: A Life of Purpose

Bible Verse: “Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others. Philippians 2:3-4

Scripture Reading: Philippians 2:1-11

With a large portion of our society driven by self-centeredness and individualism, it’s so important for us to remember how life-changing serving those around us can be.

As men, we often search for meaning and purpose in our lives through personal achievements or accolades. However, true purpose is not found in these things; rather, it is found through generous acts of service.

We see this exemplified in the life of Jesus, who said He came to serve rather than be served. (Matthew 20:26-28) This is essential to living a life of purpose. In other words, there is no life of purpose, in God’s mind, without service to others.

Here are three quick things you may already know about serving. Let’s remind ourselves again because of how important they are.

Serving others starts with humility

Our Scripture and Bible reading for today talks all about the kind of humility needed for serving. If Jesus made serving such a priority and lived it out with great humility, He is our example, so that’s what we need to strive for.

Serving others means you’re watching for opportunities

Do you believe God is already at work in everyone all the time? I hope you do, because if you do, then you realize you don’t have to start a work in those around you. Rather, you get to join God in what He is already doing in them.

I’m so relieved that God is at work in others well before I am involved in their lives by loving and serving them. We must be listening to God, and be open to His leading because He is bringing opportunities to love and serve people all the time. Is it possible we just don’t always notice those divine appointments?

Serving others is leadership and inspires others to do the same

If we understand that serving is leadership, then we understand the model Jesus wanted for leadership. Our verse for today mentions, “Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves”. The best leaders are the selfless ones, the humble ones, and the ones who want others to succeed around them more than their own success. That’s the kind of leader I want to serve and the kind I strive to be. How about you?

Prayer: Dear God, help me to be a man who doesn’t need to be asked to serve. Open my eyes to see where you are leading and wanting me to serve. Help me to serve with joy and as an example for others. Thank you, Jesus, for giving such a clear example of how we are to live and serve. Help me to be more like you!

Reflection: Would people describe me as a servant leader? Would my family describe me as a servant leader? What are some areas I need to be serving in that I’m currently not?


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About
Paul Fraser
Paul is currently serving as the National Church Multiplication Coordinator for the Pentecostal Assemblies of Canada. He has been in full-time ministry for 23 years. Reaching people far from God, church multiplication and the next generation are his ministry passions. Paul believes the best days are still ahead for advancing God’s Kingdom in Canada and that we all have a part to play.
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Paul Fraser
Paul is currently serving as the National Church Multiplication Coordinator for the Pentecostal Assemblies of Canada. He has been in full-time ministry for 23 years. Reaching people far from God, church multiplication and the next generation are his ministry passions. Paul believes the best days are still ahead for advancing God’s Kingdom in Canada and that we all have a part to play.