How can we ensure our service to God is out of love, not duty? The Elder Brother’s Complaint “But he answered, ‘Look, all these years I served you and never disobeyed your command.’” (Luke 15:29) – Long-term obedience, yet no joy – Focus on what he didn’t get rather than who his father was – Resentment exposed a heart motivated by duty, not love The Heart of True Service “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments.” (John 14:15) – Love leads; obedience follows – Christ wants relationship first, activity second “For Christ’s love compels us.” (2 Corinthians 5:14) – Love is the engine, not mere obligation Warning Signs We’re Slipping into Duty • Resentment when others are blessed • Comparison: “I work harder than they do” • Entitlement: expecting God to “pay back” our service • Joyless compliance—going through motions • Neglect of personal communion with God while staying busy for Him Shifting from Duty to Delight • Return to the gospel daily: “We love because He first loved us.” (1 John 4:19) • Meditate on the Father’s lavish grace (Luke 15:20–24) • Invite the Spirit to refresh love—He pours God’s love into our hearts (Romans 5:5) • Celebrate small, undeserved gifts; gratitude softens duty-driven hearts • Serve in areas that align with God-given passion; joy flourishes where gifts meet needs Practices That Fuel Love – Unhurried Scripture reading; listen for the Father’s voice – Honest, worshipful prayer: adoration before requests – Fellowship with believers who model joyful service – Regular rest and Sabbath rhythms; busyness can smother affection – Acts of mercy to the “least” (Matthew 25:40) remind us of Christ’s love for us Living It Out Today • Start the day declaring: “Love the LORD your God with all your heart…” (Deuteronomy 6:5) • Before any task, pause: “I’m doing this with You, Father, not merely for You.” • Review motives at day’s end: “Was my service an overflow of love?” • When duty creeps in, confess quickly and ask God to reignite affection • Rejoice in every evidence of grace—yours and others’. “Without love, I gain nothing.” (1 Corinthians 13:3) Closing Encouragement The Father who ran to embrace the prodigal also steps outside to entreat the dutiful son. Accept His invitation to the feast; let love, not labor, drive your service. |
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