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The Key to Servanthood

Feb 06, 2013
Read | John 13:3-16
Many Christians are discontented and unsettled because they fail to understand that true servanthood is more than simply coming to church on Sunday; it involves pouring one’s life into somebody else’s. Jesus demonstrated this when He washed the disciples’ feet in the upper room during the Last Supper.
The Lord’s example shows us that the key is humility. Unless we are willing to stoop low and get dirty in ministering to others, we have missed the point. In addition, a true servant . . .
• Does not wait to be asked. Nobody requested that Jesus go and wash the disciples’ feet. Just as He saw and did what was necessary, a true servant is alert to identify the need and then volunteers to meet it. He will quietly go about his service without looking for recognition or reward. He is satisfied and with the overwhelming joy that comes by simply giving.
• Must learn to receive as well as to give. That is often quite difficult for servants. Jesus told His disciples that unless they allowed Him to wash their feet, they’d have no part with Him. Peter balked because he was too proud to receive such care (v. 8). We must not be so tied to convention or pride that we say no to somebody who lovingly desires to “wash our feet.” If God Himself could take “the very nature of a servant” (Phil. 2:6-7 niv) and perform a menial task for His disciples, what excuse could we possibly have for not serving others?
As Jesus’ followers, we should look to Him for our example of servanthood.
If God Himself could take “the very nature of a servant” (Phil. 2:6-7 niv) and perform a menial task for His disciples, what excuse could we possibly come up with for not serving others?
God bless you!
Amen

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