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Are we effective servants?
Are we effective servants?
By Vickie Koth
Ashburn, Virginia
Are we effective servants? We will not be known as effective servants if we are not also known as a loving example. Our daily experience with others we touch should saturate them with a genuineness so compelling that they will feel our sincerity and receive what we have to give openly. Our loving, intentional interaction, purposed for stimulating growth, will help others reach their goals.
We can take this advice from Peter as he wrote in 1 Peter 5:2-3 of the Bible. This passage is not only true for pastors, but anyone who leads or serves others. Peter says, “Shepherd the flock of God which is among you, serving as overseers, not by compulsion but willingly, not for dishonest gain but eagerly, nor as being lords over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock.” He says to “shepherd” - serving them before being served as a shepherd tends to a flock. Do not act as a lord over them, but invest in them, being an example as to how one should live. Watch out for, or oversee, those who have been entrusted to your care. And do all of this willingly, not for your own gain, but eagerly.
We should ask ourselves a few questions as we provide reasonable service to others. Do you consider it an obligation or a privilege? Are you motivated to serve by those who are watching or by those who may benefit? Is it personal gain that drives you or a passion to give? Does your life example speak loudly when you influence others?
We should be volunteers, mentors, leaders and role models. It should not be about building our reputation or climbing to the top of the social or corporate ladder, but quietly coming with an open hand and heart to those who would receive us even when no one is looking. There is no greater gift we can give to others than to give of ourselves.
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