A Passion To Serve September 8, 2015

Ephesians 2:8-10      For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do

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John 4:10     Jesus answered her, "If you knew the gift of God and who it is that asks you for a drink, you would have asked him and he would have given you living water."

Acts 15:11     No! We believe it is through the grace of our Lord Jesus that we are saved, just as they are."

Romans 3:24     and all are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.

Romans 9:16     It does not, therefore, depend on human desire or effort, but on God's mercy.

Ephesians 2:5     made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions--it is by grace you have been saved.

Oswald Chambers, author of My Utmost for His Highest, died in 1917 at age 43. His influence, however, lives on. Almost a century later, God is still using this man’s book to speak to hearts; I am one of the many convicted by his words. Chambers’ message has lasted because he gave priority to things of eternal value rather than to things of the world.

Sadly, many people choose an existence with no enduring significance. Setting out to make as much money as possible, please oneself, and retire to enjoy the good life is unbiblical. Worthwhile living involves giving ourselves unreservedly to God so He can use us in any way He sees fit. Christians like Chambers, who make a lasting impact in their sphere of influence, have a passion to serve the Lord. They look for ways to express their love and devotion to Him.

As citizens of a heavenly kingdom, believers should see their job title as “servant of almighty God.” Perhaps you are thinking, I have a secular job or My life doesn't matter much. Friend, if you are determined to find ways to be useful for the kingdom, God will supply tasks of eternal value. Be sensitive to people in need. Share your faith with those who hurt. Whether through your vocation or in your community, make yourself available to individuals who need help. Tell others what the Lord is doing in your life.

You are called to serve God where you are. We have all been given the work of evangelists and teachers (Matt. 28:19) as well as the task of caring for those who are in need (Isa. 1:17; Gal. 6:2). There is much work to be done.