Morning Devotional 081421 Called to Serve

Liz’s Morning Devotional based upon Upper Room

August 14, 2021

Read Acts of the Apostles 20:32-35

32 Now I entrust you to God and the message of his grace, which is able to build you up and give you an inheritance among all whom God has made holy. 33 I haven’t craved anyone’s silver, gold, or clothing. 34 You yourselves know that I have provided for my own needs and for those of my companions with my own hands. 35 In everything I have shown you that, by working hard, we must help the weak. In this way we remember the Lord Jesus’ words: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’”

Good Morning! Give thanks with a grateful heart!

When the rains came through yesterday afternoon, the temperature dropped and I could breathe better after the oppressive heat of the last few days. Neon and I enjoyed our time outside this morning as I thanked God for all my blessings. Over the past few weeks, many of the passages that we have studied together have involved being called by God. God blesses us with each breath that we breathe and each new day provides us with endless opportunities to serve in response to our blessings.

We must never forget that we are not serving to earn God’s blessings, but that we serve in response to our blessings. When God sent His Son to walk upon the earth, Jesus came to show us how to live a life of faith through which we share God’s love and mercy with all. When Jesus gave His life for our sins, we received the ultimate gift of eternal life.

Let’s consider for a moment the gifts that we receive from God. You may be blessed with the gift of growing beautiful plants, or baking, or sewing, or listening. Sometimes it takes time to discern our gift, but we are each born with our unique ability. Imagine someone who has a green thumb only growing plants behind a wall or indoors that only they can see and enjoy. As Christians, we are called to use our gifts to share God’s love and mercy. Those beautiful plants could bring such joy to someone who is struggling. Just the simple act of sharing your gifts with others is a beautiful way to respond to God. No act of kindness is too small! Each time we share God’s blessings, we are blessed as well.

Loving God, Thank You for loving us. You bless us everyday with your love and mercy. May we never forget to share those gifts with others. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen

Thought for the day: How can I serve God today?

Share a gift with someone today! Pastor Liz