Whenever I go to visit our daughter Malia on the mainland, I appreciate the much-needed reminder from my wife: “Honey, watch your spending.” My inclination is to treat Malia and her friends to meals or treats whenever I can. Then, I thought I can treat them to a different kind of spending. What about spending time, hanging out with them and serving in some way?
Malia and I were working on our computers when she got a text from one of her players. Her keys were locked in her car and she didn’t want to pay $200 for a locksmith to come out. I reminded Malia that she had Triple A service. So we dropped what we were doing to meet Malia’s player and the Triple A locksmith at her car. And we brought along a Starbucks drink to brighten the player’s day! It felt so good to spend time serving this young lady.
Paul commended some friends for their service to others:
“You know that Stephanas and his household were the first of the harvest of believers in Greece, and they are spending their lives in service to God’s people. I urge you, dear brothers and sisters, 16 to submit to them and others like them who serve with such devotion.”
1 Corinthians 16:15-16 NLT
Service to God’s people (and others) with deep devotion brings joy to others and ourselves.
Paul writes a few sentences earlier:
“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.”
1 Corinthians 15:58 NLT
Serving others and serving in general can be tiring and hard work. That’s why I always try to encourage people to serve with motives to honor God first and foremost. When we serve as worship unto Jesus—not for man, recognition, respect, or rewards—I believe it pleases the Lord! Nothing you do for the Lord is ever useless!
