TEXT: JOHN 12:26 NKJV
[26] If any man serve me, let him follow me; and where I am, there shall also my servant be: if any man serve me, him will my Father honour.
Discussion
Today’s devotional focuses on our service to God. According to our Bible text, the major component of service is followership. If a person does not follow Jesus, then they are not truly serving God, irrespective of any title bestowed upon them.
Matthew 7:22–23 gives us an example of service without followership. Many said to Jesus:
“Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? And in thy name have cast out devils? And in thy name done many wonderful works?”
But Jesus declared to them:
“I never knew you; depart from me, ye that work iniquity.”
The passage says “many,” not few. This means that there are many workers who are actively engaged in God’s service today but are not genuine followers of Jesus. Our main Bible text reminds us that only those who follow Jesus will be honoured.
It is high time we examine ourselves and determine whether we are truly following Jesus or merely using His name to achieve our personal desires. Lord, please help us all. Today’s topic calls for deep self-examination.
Many of us serve actively in various church departments, such as the prayer team, choir, ushering, and many others. However, being busy in church does not necessarily mean that Jesus recognises our service. God is calling us to something greater than mere service. He is calling us into true followership: looking unto Jesus, the Author and Finisher of our faith, loving Him wholeheartedly, and living in readiness to meet Him when He returns for His saints.
Many people may be deceived by outward displays of active service. In fact, someone may even receive an award as the “Most Valuable Worker” in the church. People may say, “We have never seen a prayer warrior like this person.” Yet, if that individual does not truly follow Christ, God will say, “I never knew you.”
It is good to be actively serving in the church, but activtly serving without true followership of Jesus Christ is a waste of time. Service that is accompanied by genuine followership of Jesus leads to honour and blessings.
Declarations:
I shall serve and follow Jesus faithfully. He shall recognise my service, and the Father shall honour me. Lord, please help me. Amen.
Light Up Christian Fellowship
