DECEMBER 13, Hebrews 6:11-12

In the verses before this, the writer of Hebrews describes to us a group of people who once called themselves Christians, but have now fallen away. They heard the gospel preached to them, yet they turned away from God and rejected Christ. We call ourselves Christians too. But what makes us different from those who have fallen away? The writer of Hebrews tells us that better things are expected, things that accompany salvation. What are these better things that accompany salvation?

These are the Christian’s work and labour of love for the Lord. All that the Christian puts his hands to, is now his form of service for the Lord. Wherever God puts him, he must be aware that everything he does now has a spiritual significance.

How does the Christian serve or minister to others? In order to minister to others, we have to start by knowing what their needs are. To do this, the Christian must first build friendships with those around him so that he is better able to serve their physical and spiritual needs.

Get to know those around you, ask them for their prayer requests, pray for them, and offer your help if you are able to. As you serve others, you will in turn be blessed. This labour of love that accompanies your salvation is sure evidence of your faith and hope in God. Have you been selfish and put yourself before friends and family? Are you willing to help someone who may be weak in schoolwork or to volunteer to help parents at home? Are you willing to give up your favorite chicken drumstick should someone else prefer it?

Now that you are saved, what’s next? It is to serve the Lord until you see Him face to face. Serving God is not just for pastors and leaders in mission trips and the like. Serving God is to live faithfully everyday, in whatever place God places you in.

However, bear in mind that this is only for Christians who are truly serving God. If you have no desire to serve, you need to ask yourself if your faith in Christ is real. Ask the Lord to turn your heart away from sin, so that you may live a renewed life of purpose and service for Him.

Thought: I am saved to serve.

Prayer: Father in heaven, thank You for Your gift of salvation. Now that I am saved, I desire and long to serve You with my life. Please help me to do my best for You and to be a blessing to those you have put in my life. In Jesus’ name, Amen.