September 24, 2024
If you own a toolbox, what would you say is the most critical piece in your assortment?
The hammer must be considered because it can be used to build and tear down. For me, it is my cell phone. I do not have a “fix-it” bone in my body. I have failed to correctly install something as simple as a light bulb. However, the cell phone enables me to call the plumber, electrician or whomever else I need. The cell phone has never let me down and gets things done.
Now that I have admitted one of my shortcomings, can we be transparent and share one possible inadequacy found in most churches? The issue is that of serving others. We live in a world that thrives on self-centeredness, and it can be tempting for even the local church to lose sight of serving others. The church is the most important “tool” in the community. The church is home to many meaningful events and worship services, but there is also a responsibility to love and help those around its building. Paul reminded the Galatians of their great privilege to be used by God to help carry the burdens of others.
As Christians, we are beautifully like Christ when helping others in need. The salvation Christ gives us has a purpose. Our activity following our conversion is part of our testimony to the world of the power of the redeeming work of Jesus. This Scripture teaches the importance of being gentle toward others. When someone is struggling under a heavy burden, they may not need to hear a sermon but may instead need a bringer of hope. Each of us has been weighed down with the burdens of life at various times. In those times, we prayed for the slightest measure of help from someone else. As Christians, we can be the answer to someone else’s prayers.
We aren’t motivated to serve others for the sake of being recognized. However, God in His love will bless us. The agricultural principle of sowing and reaping is prominent in the teachings of Scripture and even from Christ.
As believers, we do not subscribe to the belief of karma, but consequences are universal for everyone. Our good works do not save us but if we are saved, we will be compelled to do good works for the glory of God and the betterment of others.
One key word in these two verses is “opportunity.” Each day God puts an unlimited number of ways to serve others in our paths. We may be too busy, distracted or indifferent to our surroundings, but that does not change the fact that the opportunities to show Christ to others are all around us.
We must seize those moments. It could be something as small as helping someone reach for an item on the grocery store shelf or helping change a tire or a million other things. Be willing and able to help when the time presents itself. I pray that if I can help at least one person each day I will do so, and if I cannot I will pull out my phone and find someone who can. Answer the call to serve others.
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This lesson was written by Bobby McKay, pastor of New Liberty Baptist Church in Morton, Mississippi, and originally published by The Baptist Paper. This study is based on the Bible Studies for Life curriculum from Lifeway Christian Resources.
