He didn’t have to come with me, but my husband Steve made it a fun adventure. I was scheduled to speak at a Ladies’ Banquet in North Carolina that was a little over 7 hours from our home. And the date happened to fall on the weekend we would be celebrating our anniversary. Steve gave me the best gift I could wish for: his support for the work I do.
He was willing to take a day off from his job so we could arrive the night before the banquet. He planned a morning walk on the beach and window shopping before I had to speak. And he found a peaceful, creek side restaurant where we were able to share lunch.
Support is important
When I began viewing, writing and speaking as a job, I knew it was important to have Steve’s support. The trip to North Carolina reaffirmed the extent of his support, and demonstrated love in action. He was willing to put aside the plans he may have had for our anniversary, and allow me to do something I love: share the truth of God with others.
God’s Word has a lot to say about this servant-attitude. When Jesus walked on earth, He lived out all He taught. He was God in the flesh, but He came to serve mankind:
And whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant: Even as the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many. Matthew 20:27-28
This truth is the opposite of what our culture teaches. So how is it possible to embrace the mindset of a servant?
Choose the right outlook
Be quick to see others the way Christ does. Each person is created in the image of God and has value and significance.So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them. Genesis 1:27
Humble yourself
Realize that others have plans and dreams, too. Instead of focusing solely on your own ambitions, help others reach theirs as well.
…in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. Philippians 2:3b
Compare the results
If you live to be waited on, you’ll be disappointed. If you choose to serve others, Christ will reward you.
For whosoever exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted. Luke 14:11
Your turn
Does a ‘me-first’ attitude characterize your thinking? What step will you take to have a servant attitude today?
Prayer: Heavenly Father, Thank You for reminding me of the importance of a servant-attitude. Forgive me when I live as if it’s all about me. Help me remember to focus on others, humble myself, and choose to be a servant. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
