Friday September 2, 2016

Serve To Bless

-LEVITICUS 9:17-24

Key Verse:

"And Moses and Aaron went into the tabernacle of the congregation, and came out, and blessed the people: and the glory of the LORD appeared unto all the people" (Leviticus 9:23).

As believers, it is a great privilege to be called into the service of the Lord. However, we must recognise that the purpose of our calling is to serve other people, not ourselves. We serve so that we might bring blessings upon the people and give glory to God. People who are privileged to serve in God's vineyard must always bear this in mind. As Aaron began his priestly ministry as a high priest in Israel, one significant thing he first did after offering the sin and burnt offerings for himself and his sons, was to raise his hands and bless the people. He recognised that his call as the high priest was to stand in the gap for the people before God. He was to bear their petitions and bring down God's blessings upon them. He did not waste time before carrying out these assignments. God gave His approval and blessed his ministry by appearing in His glory before the people. Whatever privilege we have to serve in whatever capacity - spiritual or secular, we must realise that service is about the people. Our duty as chosen vessels is to serve them and bring God's desired blessings upon them. Therefore, we must not see the gifts, privileges and positions we have as means of projecting or gratifying ourselves. In essence, if our service fails to bring blessings on the people and glory to the Lord, then we have failed in our calling. Do you have an opportunity to serve in a small or big capacity in the church, state, community or corporation? Do you see it as an opportunity to satisfy your interest and those of your allies? Or do you see it as a solemn and lofty call to serve God and bless humanity? Service is about the people. When it is carried out with this understanding and attitude, then it attracts the greatest blessings and joy. Let your service bless the people and glorify God.

Thought for the day: Service brings its greatest joy when it blesses other

Bible Reading in one Year: PSALM 78 - 79