August 23, 2023
Lord, I Love You, But …
Even though we speak like this, dear friends, we are convinced of better things in your case—the things that have to do with salvation. God is not unjust; he will not forget your work and the love you have shown him as you have helped his people and continue to help them. We want each of you to show this same diligence to the very end, so that what you hope for may be fully realized. We do not want you to become lazy, but to imitate those who through faith and patience inherit what has been promised. When God made his promise to Abraham, since there was no one greater for him to swear by, he swore by himself, saying, “I will surely bless you and give you many descendants.” And so after waiting patiently, Abraham received what was promised. People swear by someone greater than themselves, and the oath confirms what is said and puts an end to all argument. Because God wanted to make the unchanging nature of his purpose very clear to the heirs of what was promised, he confirmed it with an oath. God did this so that, by two unchangeable things in which it is impossible for God to lie, we who have fled to take hold of the hope set before us may be greatly encouraged. We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure. Hebrews 6:9-20
Have you ever found yourself thinking, I love you, Jesus, but don’t ask me to do that! Or perhaps you served Him, but your attitude was wrong: If no one else will do it, then I guess I will. What causes us to be reluctant servants?
Busyness: Sometimes our schedules are so full that we don’t allow space to follow the Lord. We need to make sure that we have margin in our life.
Sense of Inadequacy: Maybe you feel unqualified, and you’re thinking, Surely there’s someone more gifted. But rest assured that God promises to equip those He calls (2 Corinthians 3:4-6).
Selfishness: Sacrificial service is not convenient. It may require that we change plans, give up comforts, or make financial sacrifices.
Lack of love: This is the hardest for us to admit—that we just don’t care enough. A reluctance to serve others shows our lack of devotion to Jesus. If we love Christ with all our heart, we’ll joyfully serve Him by ministering to people in our family, workplace, community, and church.
Are you quick to follow the Lord’s leading, or are you focused on your own plans and desires? Any service offered in Jesus’ name won’t be in vain. You’ll experience the joy of giving and the assurance that He won’t forget your sacrifice.
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