Bible, Discipleship

WHY SERVICE WITH SACRIFICE HOLDS GREATER VALUE

James 2:18-26

What value is there to our acts of service? Do our church-related duties really cost us anything?

As I struggled to find some answers, God led me to James 2:18-26. This passage has been used to motivate many a Believer into filling their role of service in the Body of Christ. Don’t get me wrong, this can be a good thing. However, we notice that the two examples given in this passage as deeds, weren’t the typical christian-service options that you find on a sign-up list in the foyer.

Think about it. Abraham didn’t sacrifice his morning of sleeping in, to make coffee in the hospitality room. As a prostitute, Rahab probably wouldn’t even be allowed to make coffee in our churches! This morning, I would propose to you that both of these examples of deeds were people who did not give anything, but gave up something.

Abraham was required to give up his son Isaak.

A massive sacrifice in order to serve God. But there was no large crowd at the altar to see Abraham’s commitment level. No opportunity to boast in his personal service to the Lord.

Rahab, who was in the business of satisfying selfish desires; put her life on the line in order to protect and help God’s people. At the time, she would have been killed if word had hit the streets, that she was helping the enemy.

The bottom line is that both of these examples of service found in James, were potential sacrifices of life. We would be wise to take note of that fact when we decide to boast about our ushering duties or fellowship breakfasts, as deeds of faith. Please understand, I’m not saying that these aren’t beneficial. However, whether a Pastor or lay-worker, without some level of sacrifice, we all risk becoming puffed up with pride about our acts of service.

Join the Conversation; Share Your Thoughts

  • Within your local church, which acts of service carry with them some form of sacrifice?

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