Reflection: Strengthened to serve
What about when we feel too overwhelmed and weak to serve others? Can we serve out of our own strength? In my experience, serving out of my own strength has led to me feeling used up and burnt out.
As we read about yesterday from John 15, it’s so important to remain connected to Jesus, to be filled in him, and to overflow this in our service to others. The apostle Peter also encourages Christians to “use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace”. He reminds them that ‘if anyone serves, they should do so with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ.’
While it can be easy to say ‘yes’ when we are asked to serve — and often hard to say ‘no’ — it’s important to examine our own hearts first. If we are disconnected from God, our service may seem ok on the surface, but in my experience, it is not strong and can lead to feelings of being used up and burnt out. Also, if we are serving in our own strength and not with the strength God provides, it will not result in ‘God being praised in all things through Christ’. Even when we feel strong — and especially if we feel weak — we should be serving with the strength that God provides.
We can remember that “… those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary; they will walk and not be faint.” (Isaiah 40:31) and also that, as Paul says, “I can do all this through him who gives me strength.” (Philippians 4:13).
Prayer:
Father God, forgive me for the times I try to serve in my own strength and forget that all I have comes from you, and is for your glory. Thank you for your promise that you will provide us with the strength to serve. Help me to remember and rely on your strength in whatever I do. Amen.