Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms. - 1 Peter 4:10 (NIV)

Devotions

Isn’t the world just a little harder right now? Isn’t it just a little sadder right now? I talk to many people who are hurting and sad. They are sad about an endless list of things that are appropriate to be sad about. There’s conflict with family, friends, or even strangers. There’s depression, anxiety, and hardship. The air is extra heavy. 

If you were feeling okay before reading this, you might be sad from reading this, but for us, I think there is a clear place to find joy. 

We are told in Proverbs 11:25, “a generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.” Notice this verse says the giver will receive. 

If you have ever studied the Five Love Languages, you know receiving gifts is one of them. This happens to be one of my love languages. Of course, we all like to receive gifts! But this Proverb says it's the generous person—the giver—who receives. I believe most of us are as filled by giving gifts as we are receiving them. 

One of the greatest gifts you can give to someone is to serve them. 1 John 3:18 says, “Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.” When you serve with actions and in truth, you aren’t just serving others. You are receiving the gift of happiness and the blessing of serving someone. Wow, isn’t God smart! He asks us to love our neighbors and serve with our gifts, and then he rewards us for doing what he asks. We hear you God; we get it.

I’m so grateful God provided a church focused on missions and outreach, so we can share and receive this happiness! The only way we can combat the sadness in this world is to follow God and serve his people. If you’re reading this and you’re looking for a place to serve, we can help you find a place to serve today. I promise you’ll be happier for it! 

PRAYER

Dear Lord, thank you for loving us so much that you reward us for serving you. You also refresh us by sharing your love with others. Please give us the desire to serve others and the eyes to see where serving is needed. We know your love brings happiness and light to a dark world. Let that light shine from us as we build your kingdom. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

Michelle Brock 

Program Coordinator at the Crossings Community Center

Michelle Brock is the Program Coordinator at the Crossings Community Center. She loves welcoming new people to The Center and sharing about all the work and exciting things happening there. 

Resources: 

• Learn about opportunities to serve! 
• Watch this sermon on living a blessed life 
• See the Crossings Community Center at work!