In what ways can you improve your diligence in serving others? Setting the Verse Before Us “if it is serving, let him serve; if it is teaching, let him teach;” (Romans 12:7) Why Diligence Matters - Service springs from obedience to Christ’s clear command (John 13:14-15). - The Lord rewards faithful, wholehearted labor (Colossians 3:23-24). - Diligence adorns the gospel we proclaim (Titus 2:9-10). Areas to Examine for Growth • Heart posture – Is love, not mere duty, driving me? (1 Corinthians 13:1-3) – Do I remember I’m ultimately serving the Lord, not people? (Ephesians 6:7) • Consistency – Am I dependable, showing up even in small, unseen tasks? (Luke 16:10) – Do I complete assignments rather than leave loose ends? (2 Timothy 4:5) • Excellence – Do I pursue “whatever is true… excellent… praiseworthy” in my work? (Philippians 4:8) – Am I willing to learn skills that improve my usefulness? (Ecclesiastes 10:10) Practical Steps to Sharpen Diligence - Schedule service; write it on the calendar so good intentions become actions. - Arrive early, prepared, prayed-up; margin fosters gracious flexibility. - Pair up with a mature believer who models steadfast service; observe and imitate (Philippians 3:17). - Set measurable goals (e.g., visit two shut-ins weekly, prepare lesson notes three days in advance). - Review and adjust monthly; stewardship means evaluating fruitfulness (1 Corinthians 4:2). Fueling Your Motivation • Look to Christ, “who came not to be served, but to serve” (Mark 10:45). • Remember eternity: “Your labor in the Lord is not in vain” (1 Corinthians 15:58). • Celebrate small victories; gratitude multiplies zeal (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18). Guarding Against Weariness - Prioritize Sabbath rest; God’s pattern includes rhythms of work and restoration (Exodus 20:9-11). - Share the load; invite others so ministry becomes a body effort (Galatians 6:2). - Pray continually; dependence keeps service from turning into self-reliance (Psalm 127:1-2). Encouragement to Press On “Let us not grow weary in well-doing, for in due time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up” (Galatians 6:9). Stay faithful; the Lord sees, delights, and will reward every act of diligent service offered in His name. |
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