In what ways can we serve others without seeking recognition? The Text “While all the people were listening, Jesus said to His disciples, ‘Beware of the scribes, who like to walk around in long robes and love the greetings in the marketplaces and the chief seats in the synagogues and the places of honor at banquets. They devour widows’ houses, and for a show make lengthy prayers. These men will receive greater condemnation.’” (Luke 20:45-47) What Jesus Exposes - Public image meant more to the scribes than people’s welfare. - Their “service” was calculated for applause, not for love. - Jesus warns that hidden motives are not hidden from God. Principles for Hidden Service - Serve because God commands, not because crowds applaud (Colossians 3:23-24). - Let God’s approval satisfy you; He sees “what is done in secret” (Matthew 6:4). - Aim to lift others higher, not yourself (Philippians 2:3-4). - Guard the heart first; outward humility without inward humility still craves recognition. Quiet Service in Action - Give anonymously to someone in financial need. - Prepare or clean the church facility when no one is around to notice. - Watch children so exhausted parents can worship undistracted. - Write encouragement cards without signing your name. - Intercede faithfully for others in prayer closets, not in microphones. - Deliver a meal to a shut-in at a time convenient for them, not for your schedule. - Volunteer for the tasks no one volunteers for—stacking chairs, taking out trash, shoveling snow. Heart Checks to Maintain Humility - Ask: “Would I still do this if absolutely no one ever found out?” - Redirect praise immediately to God when compliments come. - Remember that every ability is a gift entrusted to you (1 Peter 4:10-11). - Meditate on Christ washing feet—King of Glory choosing servant’s work (John 13:14-15). - Keep short accounts with the Lord; confess craving for recognition the moment it surfaces. Encouraging Scriptures - Matthew 6:1-4—Give and pray in secret; the Father rewards openly. - Proverbs 27:2—“Let another praise you, and not your own mouth.” - Romans 12:10—“Outdo one another in showing honor.” - Galatians 6:9—Do not grow weary; at the proper time you will reap a harvest. - Hebrews 6:10—God is not unjust; He will not forget the work and love you show. Serving without seeking recognition keeps the spotlight where it belongs—on the Lord who “opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble” (James 4:6). |
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