PROTECTION OF SCATTERED MEMBERS: Spiritual Gifts to Edify

We wind down this last week of November with devotionals centered around the theme PROTECTION OF SCATTERED MEMBERS. Enjoy what our team has developed for your spiritual edification and challenge!

Ministry is the use of our spiritual gifts and talents by offering them to God and service to others. Christ came not to be served, but to serve and give His life as a ransom for many. (Mark 10:25). In ministry, there is the “pouring out” or “emptying” of ourselves for the service of others. A servant of Christ can become physically, emotionally, psychologically, and spiritually tired from ministry responsibilities. (II Corinthians 4:7)

There are times when you won’t feel appreciated; believers will hurt you intentionally and unintentionally; sometimes you will not see the fruit of your labor; sometimes you will feel like a failure, even your fears will overshadow the greatness of God. But we must learn that our emptying is adding to someone’s growth and bringing glory to the Lord Jesus Christ, and it is worth it. There is even joy when you pour out and in turn you become refreshed!

We know the blessing of receiving that phone call, that card that came right on time, that smile or hug on a Sunday morning – that blessing from your presence. Is there someone that the Lord has put on your heart to encourage? Let’s serve one another, let’s pray for one another, let’s edify one another and be faithful in practicing the “one another” challenges from God’s Word. It is said that the bee is more honored than other insects, not because she labors, but because she labors for others.

Prayer: Awesome Savior, more of Thee and less of me. May I decrease that You may increase. May You work in me to will and to do for Your good pleasures for Your glory. Amen.
By Cheryl Torain