How can we "serve the LORD only" in our daily lives today? Setting the Scene “So the Israelites put away the Baals and the Ashtoreths and served the LORD only.” (1 Samuel 7:4) Israel’s decisive action shows that wholehearted service to God has always required turning from every rival allegiance. Core Idea: Exclusive Allegiance to God To “serve the LORD only” means that every sphere of life—thoughts, affections, choices, relationships, possessions—comes under His rule. Anything that competes for ultimate trust or love is an idol, even if it is otherwise good (Matthew 6:24). Practical Steps for Today • Identify and renounce idols – Ask: What secretly masters my time, money, or emotions? (Colossians 3:5) – Deliberately distance yourself from whatever draws your heart away. • Daily surrender of the will – Begin each morning by yielding plans to God (Proverbs 3:5-6). – End each day with repentance and gratitude (1 John 1:9). • Prioritize personal worship – Set apart unhurried time in Scripture and prayer (Psalm 119:97). – Sing or meditate on truth that magnifies Christ (Ephesians 5:19). • Obey promptly and completely – Resolve to say “yes, Lord” even when it is costly (John 14:15). – Avoid partial obedience; Saul’s example warns us (1 Samuel 15:22-23). • Serve others as unto the Lord – Look for unnoticed tasks and do them cheerfully (Colossians 3:23). – Treat every person as bearing God’s image (James 2:1-4). • Steward resources for Kingdom purposes – Budget with generosity in view (2 Corinthians 9:6-8). – Invest time in discipling, not merely consuming. • Cultivate accountability and fellowship – Invite trusted believers to speak into your walk (Hebrews 10:24-25). – Corporate worship keeps hearts aligned with God’s people and mission. Guarding Against Modern Idolatry • Success and career: Remember promotion comes from the Lord (Psalm 75:6-7). • Technology and entertainment: Fast periodically to test mastery (1 Corinthians 6:12). • Family and relationships: Love them best by loving God first (Luke 14:26-27). • Comfort and security: Hold plans loosely, rest in God’s sovereignty (Philippians 4:11-13). Fueling Our Love for the Lord • Meditate on the gospel daily; nothing stirs devotion like the cross (Romans 5:8). • Recall answered prayers and past deliverances (Psalm 77:11-12). • Celebrate the Lord’s Supper regularly; it keeps Christ’s sacrifice central (1 Corinthians 11:26). • Tell others what He has done; testimony fans personal faith (Psalm 107:2). Encouraging Scriptures • Joshua 24:14—“Now, therefore, fear the LORD and serve Him in sincerity and truth…” • Matthew 22:37—“‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’” • Romans 12:1—“Offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your spiritual service of worship.” • 1 Corinthians 10:31—“Whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all to the glory of God.” Serving the LORD only is not a one-time vow but a moment-by-moment posture: turning from idols, treasuring Christ, and letting every detail of life echo, “Yours, Lord, is the kingdom.” |
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