Photo by Jutta Gutberlet on Unsplash
Nature’s Lesson: Consider how honeybees work tirelessly within a hive. Each bee’s labor is rarely about individual survival; instead, their collective effort sustains the entire colony. From gathering nectar to tending larvae, their roles may seem small in isolation, yet they contribute to something far greater. There’s no applause, no spotlight—only instinctual, rhythmic service that benefits others and keeps life flourishing around them.
Personal Reflection: Now think about the work you do—at home, in your job, in your community. What motivates you on an ordinary day? Is it achievement, recognition, or a sense of control? Or have you tasted the quiet joy of serving others simply because it’s needed? Sometimes our contributions feel small or go unnoticed, and it can be tempting to ask, “What’s the point?” But even in hidden acts of care, something meaningful takes root—especially when love, not reward, fuels our effort.
Spiritual Insight: Greatness is found in the posture of a servant. When we let go of striving for recognition and embrace the steady rhythm of serving others, our work is transformed. It becomes part of a kingdom pattern—small acts echoing a much larger grace. Over time, this kind of service shapes our souls and draws us into the heart of God’s work in the world.
“For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” (Mark 10:45 ESV)
This passage reveals Jesus’ fundamental orientation toward service, establishing it as the core of his identity and mission. By intentionally positioning himself not as one deserving service but as one giving service, Christ modeled a revolutionary approach to power and position. Jesus’ example invites us to measure greatness not by how many serve us but by how meaningfully we serve others, even to the point of significant personal sacrifice.
“And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.” (Galatians 6:9 ESV)
This encouragement acknowledges the reality of service fatigue while promising eventual fruit from persistent goodness. By continuing to do good works even when immediate results aren’t visible, we exercise faith in God’s timing and purposes. The harvest of meaningful service often emerges gradually, requiring patient endurance through seasons when our contributions seem unnoticed or unappreciated.
Spiritual Move: Service—To intentionally meet others’ needs without expectation of recognition or reward. Through practicing service as a Spiritual Move rather than an occasional activity, we develop Christ-like character and combat our natural self-centeredness. Regular service reorients our hearts toward kingdom values.
Journaling Prompts:
1. How might your current work role be reframed as an opportunity to serve others rather than merely earn a living?
2. When have you felt most tempted to “grow weary of doing good” in your workplace? What sustained you?
Thought and Discussion Questions:
1. How does Jesus’ example of servanthood challenge conventional ideas about success and achievement in our careers?
2. What practices help you maintain a service mindset when facing difficult colleagues or ungrateful recipients?
3. Share about someone whose work served you in a way that deeply impacted your life.
4. What “harvest” might God be growing through your seemingly ordinary acts of service at work?