And see, now I go bound in the spirit to Jerusalem, not knowing the things that will happen to me there, except that the Holy Spirit testifies in every city, saying that chains and tribulations await me. But none of these things move me; nor do I count my life dear to myself, so that I may finish my race with joy, and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God.
Acts 20:22-24
We began this section of Acts last time by considering the first of three ways Paul described following and serving the Lord: the importance of finishing the race—and finishing well. The second of three: Paul also spoke about his desire to serve in the ministry. What does that mean and how do we do this?
Lets begin by remembering how Jesus spoke numerous times about the importance of serving, even as He served (Matthew 20:25-28).
But Jesus called them to Himself and said, "You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and those who are great exercise authority over them. Yet it shall not be so among you; but whoever desires to become great among you, let him be your servant. And whoever desires to be first among you, let him 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."
But how de we serve? First, we are not all gifted in the same way, so we do not all serve in the same way (just like every part of our physical bodies functions differently so the body is whole; Romans 12:4-5).
Second, what we may like to do might be an indicator of how God has gifted us. But remember that Jeremiah and Jonah didn’t want to do what God called them to do, so begin with things you like, but be willing to serve in ways you might not like!
Third, look for needs and try serving when and where needed. See if God blesses your efforts. This is a great way to discover where God may indeed be gifting you.
Fourth, don’t give up too quickly. Do something for a while before giving up. Many new things seem awkward at first. We often discover God’s gifting as we stay at it for a reasonable length of time.
Fifth, because life changes, be open to trying new things. And because as we age we are often not physically able to do things we used to be able to do. Be open to serving in different ways. Many older saints can serve the Lord only in behind the scenes ways. Prayer and giving others words of encouragement are ministries that even the weak, infirmed, and those house-bound can do.
The bottom line is remembering that service is not about the server (ourselves), but about those being served (others).
The third of the three, Paul wanted to testify to the gospel of the grace of God, next time.