As Unto The Lord
Wednesday, July 17
Matthew 25:35-36 (NIV)
“For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.’”
Devotion
Jesus reveals to us in Matthew 25, a profound truth about our service to others. He equates our acts of kindness, compassion, and generosity toward those in need with serving him directly. When we feed the hungry, give water to the thirsty, welcome strangers, clothe the needy, care for the sick, and visit the imprisoned, we are not just meeting physical needs; we are ministering to Jesus himself.
Jesus calls us to a life of compassion and selflessness. Each act of kindness, no matter how small, carries significance in his kingdom. When we extend a helping hand to someone in need, we are showing the love of Christ in a tangible way. Our actions become a reflection of his character and his heart for the marginalized and hurting.
Moreover, these verses remind us that true discipleship involves actively seeking out opportunities to serve others. It's about going beyond mere words and embodying the love of Christ through our actions. Whether it's volunteering at your local church, supporting a friend in distress, or reaching out to someone who feels alone, we have the privilege of being vessels of God's grace and mercy in the world.
Let us pray for hearts that are sensitive to the needs of those around us. May we be willing instruments in God's hands, ready to serve wherever and whenever He calls. As we do so, we participate in building His kingdom on earth, one act of love at a time.
Today’s Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father,
I thank You for the times You have provided what I needed through the actions of another. There were times I went to You in prayer, and You sent an ordinary angel to provide that answer. I may not have always noticed Your hand in it, but I now offer You praise. Help me to be that friend, visitor, or servant for others. Use me, Lord, as You see fit. In the Name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.
Apply It Today
What are the kinds of needs that really touch your feelings and emotions? Do you feel sad when you see a lonely person? Does your heart break for the sick among us? Do you have a passion to help children? Think about ways you can use those passions to help those who need you, and follow through becoming someone’s ordinary angel.
Resources
- In order to serve others, one must have the love of God that compels and moves us to action. Watch the message, “Love Like You’ve Never Been Hurt”, and discover the power of love.
- Sign up for Next Steps, your first step towards actively serving at Free Chapel.