Serving As Worship: Expressing Love for God and Others

January 3, 2025 EMMANUEL ADEBAYO AJIBOLA

Serving others is a fundamental aspect of the Christian faith, rooted in the teachings of Jesus Christ and the Bible. It is not merely an act of kindness but a profound expression of love for God and our neighbours. Through service, we demonstrate our obedience to God’s commandments and bring light into the lives of those around us. This article explores the biblical principles of serving others, the joy and fulfilment it brings, practical ways to serve, and how serving reflects God’s love.

The Bible consistently highlights the importance of serving others. Jesus Himself declared the “Great Commandment,” instructing believers to love God with all their heart, soul, and mind and to love their neighbours as themselves (Matthew 2:37–39). Service is a natural outflow of this love, as it puts faith into action.

In Matthew 25:35-40, Jesus emphasised that serving others is akin to serving Him: “Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.” This principle underscores the spiritual significance of acts of service, transforming them into acts of worship.

Moreover, Jesus modelled the ultimate example of servanthood. In John 13:14–15, He washed His disciples’ feet, a task reserved for the lowliest of servants, and urged His followers to do the same for one another. Philippians 2:5-7 further describes Jesus as taking the form of a servant, demonstrating humility and selflessness.

Benefits of Serving Others

Serving others does have its reward. The Bible says no good deed will go without reward. So what are the benefits of serving others?

1. Spiritual Growth

Serving others is an opportunity to grow closer to God. It aligns us with His will, enhances our spiritual maturity, and cultivates a heart of gratitude and compassion. When we serve others, we align ourselves with God’s purpose for humanity. The Bible makes it clear that God calls His people to serve and love one another. By engaging in acts of service, we live out the essence of the Great Commandment, which strengthens our connection with Him.

Through service, believers experience a sense of divine purpose. Serving others becomes an act of worship and obedience, demonstrating our willingness to follow God’s plan. This alignment fosters a deeper understanding of His character and heart for humanity.

2. Personal Joy and Fulfillment

The act of serving others brings immense joy and satisfaction. Knowing that you have made a positive impact on someone’s life is deeply fulfilling. The act of serving others is a source of profound joy and satisfaction because it allows us to participate in something greater than ourselves—blessing others and reflecting God’s love. Knowing that your actions have brought comfort, hope, or relief to someone creates a deep sense of fulfilment and purpose.

Proverbs 11:25 highlights this reciprocal nature of service: “A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.” This verse underscores the spiritual truth that when we give of ourselves—whether through time, resources, or kindness—we are also renewed and enriched.

The joy of serving goes beyond material rewards; it’s rooted in the spiritual connection formed through acts of love and generosity. It reminds us that we are fulfilling God’s design for humanity, fostering community, and building His kingdom. This joy and satisfaction encourage us to serve more, creating a virtuous cycle of giving, refreshing, and being refreshed in return.

3. Stronger Communities

Service fosters unity and strengthens bonds within communities. When people come together to serve, they create a network of support and care that uplifts everyone involved.

The Bible is filled with stories of individuals who exemplified servanthood. among them are;

The Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37): This parable illustrates how love and compassion transcend cultural and social boundaries. The Samaritan went out of his way to care for a stranger in need, setting an example of selfless service.
Dorcas/Tabitha (Acts 9:36): Known for her acts of kindness and charity, Dorcas sewed garments for widows and the needy, leaving a legacy of compassion and generosity.

In modern times, individuals and organisations continue to embody the spirit of service. Volunteers in disaster relief efforts, food banks, and mentorship programs are examples of people making a tangible difference in their communities. Their stories inspire others to join in the mission of serving humanity.

Practical Ways to Serve

Volunteer in Your Community: Offer your time and skills to local charities, food banks, or homeless shelters.
Mentor or Tutor: Help children or young adults in your community by sharing your knowledge and expertise.
Care for the Vulnerable: assist the elderly, disabled, or marginalised individuals in your neighbourhood.
Share Professional Skills: Use your professional abilities to benefit others, such as teaching, providing medical care, or offering legal assistance.
Engage in Church Activities: Participate in outreach programs, mission trips, or other church-led initiatives aimed at helping those in need.

How Serving Others Reflects God’s Love

Service is a tangible expression of God’s love. 1 John 3:18 reminds us, “Let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.” By serving others, we demonstrate God’s love in action, providing hope and encouragement to those who may feel forgotten or unloved.

Moreover, serving others allows Christians to be a light in the world, as Jesus commanded in Matthew 5:16: “Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” Our acts of service not only benefit others but also glorify God and draw people closer to Him.

Finding ways to serve is easier than you might think. First, start by reflecting on your unique gifts and talents. What are you good at? What are you passionate about? Use these strengths to make a difference in the lives of others.

Look for opportunities in your local community or church. Join a volunteer group, participate in outreach programs, or simply reach out to a neighbour in need. No act of service is too small to make a significant impact.

Finally, remember the rewards of serving. While the joy of helping others is immediate, the eternal rewards are even greater. Galatians 6:9-10 encourages us, “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.”

In conclusion, serving others is more than an act of kindness—it is a vital expression of our faith and love for God. It brings joy, strengthens communities, and reflects God’s boundless love to the world. By following Jesus’ example of servanthood, we can create a ripple effect of compassion and generosity that transcends generations.

This week, take a step toward serving others. Whether it’s volunteering, mentoring, or simply lending a helping hand, your actions can make a lasting impact. Let us serve wholeheartedly, knowing that in doing so, we honour God and fulfil His command to love one another.