DAILY DEVOTIONAL FROM PASTOR WESLEY May 20, 2022

Freedom in Self-Forgetfulness

Our work should be a source of joy and liberation as we can use our God-given abilities to serve Him, so we can't fall into selfish thinking.

Whether, then, you eat or drink or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.1 Corinthians 10:31

Though it might not always feel like it, jobs are a blessing. Our work allows us to utilize God-given talents, provide for our families, and grow both personally and professionally. However, when we feel overlooked or sense that our contributions aren’t valued, emotions like anger or envy get in the way. What should be a source of delight and fulfillment becomes drudgery we avoid at all costs.

The trouble starts when we think of ourselves as individuals rather than as members of the community. We are here to serve and help one another, after all—not to be served. Look at Jesus’ example as He speaks to Mrs. Zebedee and her sons: Then the mother of the sons of Zebedee came to Jesus with her sons, bowing down and making a request of Him. And He said to her, ``What do you wish?" She said to Him, ``Command that in Your kingdom these two sons of mine may sit one on Your right and one on Your left." But Jesus answered, ``You do not know what you are asking. Are you able to drink the cup that I am about to drink?" They said to Him, ``We are able." He said to them, ``My cup you shall drink; but to sit on My right and on My left, this is not Mine to give, but it is for those for whom it has been prepared by My Father." And hearing this, the ten became indignant with the two brothers. But Jesus called them to Himself and said, ``You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great men exercise authority over them. ``It is not this way among you, but whoever wishes to become great among you shall be your servant, and whoever wishes to be first among you shall be your slave; just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many." (Matthew 20:20-28).

That’s why God’s Word says, “Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility consider one another as more important than yourselves” (Philippians 2:3). Putting ourselves last allows us to lay petty concerns down instead of becoming defensive. Then we can experience freedom in the truest sense of the word.

Think about it

How do you feel about your work? Is it a source of joy and liberation? If not, how can you begin to think about it differently?

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