How can we apply the principle of lifelong service to our faith today? Scripture Focus Deuteronomy 15:17: “then you shall take an awl and pierce it through his ear into the door, and he shall become your servant for life. And to your maidservant you shall do the same.” A Picture of Willing, Permanent Devotion • The servant’s ear was pierced at the master’s doorway—a public, irreversible statement of lifelong loyalty. • Love, gratitude, and trust—not compulsion—drove the decision (Exodus 21:5-6). • The doorway tied the servant’s life to the master’s household and future. New-Testament Echoes • Psalm 40:6-8; Hebrews 10:5-10—Messiah models willing obedience. • Romans 12:1—offer your body as a “living sacrifice.” • 1 Corinthians 6:19-20—we were “bought with a price.” • Luke 9:23—“take up your cross daily.” • Colossians 3:23-24—serve the Lord, not men. Living the Principle Today Commitment • Settle the ownership question: Christ redeemed you; you belong to Him. • Remove the option of quitting when discipleship feels costly. Obedience • Measure choices by Scripture, not culture (John 14:15). • Practice immediate obedience in small matters; it trains the heart for larger ones. Love-Driven Service • Serve because He first loved us (1 John 4:19). • Shift from “have to” to “get to,” reflecting Psalm 100:2 joy. Public Witness • A pierced ear was visible; our allegiance should be too. • Consistent worship, integrity at work, and sacrificial generosity say, “I am His for life.” Perseverance • Galatians 6:9—do not grow weary. • 2 Timothy 4:7—finish the race; keep the faith. Practical Steps 1. Each morning, verbally surrender: “Lord, my ear is at Your doorpost.” 2. Choose one unseen task at home, work, or church and do it cheerfully (Philippians 2:14-15). 3. Memorize Romans 12:1; recite it when tempted to quit. 4. Mentor a younger believer; model faithful service (2 Timothy 2:2). 5. End each day with a brief review: where did you serve well, and where is fresh surrender needed? Why It Matters • Lifelong service guards against seasonal, half-hearted faith. • It deepens joy and usefulness, while showcasing the gospel to a commitment-averse culture. • Above all, it honors the Master who “did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many” (Matthew 20:28). |
    |