Hebrews 6:9-12 NKJV

(9)  But, beloved, we are confident of better things concerning you, yes, things that accompany salvation, though we speak in this manner.

(10)  For God is not unjust to forget your work and labor of love which you have shown toward His name, in that you have ministered to the saints, and do minister.

(11)  And we desire that each one of you show the same diligence to the full assurance of hope until the end,

(12)  that you do not become sluggish, but imitate those who through faith and patience inherit the promises.

 

Most of us are quick to declare our love for God, but at times our reluctance to serve Him tells a different story. 

Honestly consider whether you have ever found yourself saying or thinking, I love you, Lord, but don't call me to do that! 

Or perhaps you served Him, but with a flawed attitude: If no one else will do it, then I guess I will. 

What causes us to be reluctant servants?

Busyness: Sometimes our schedules are so full that there's no space to follow the Lord when we hear Him calling us to minister in a certain area. We all need "margins" in our lives if we want to abide in God's will.

Inadequacy: Perhaps you feel unqualified to serve, and you're thinking, Surely there's someone more gifted who could do that job. But that's just an excuse; the Lord promises to equip those He calls (2 Cor. 3:4-6).

Selfishness: Sacrificial service is never convenient. It may require that we change our plans, give up our comforts, or even make financial sacrifices.

Lack of love: This is the hardest for us to admit—that we just don't care enough. Our reluctance to serve others reveals a lack of devotion to the Lord. Those who love Christ with all their heart will joyfully serve Him by ministering to those in their families, workplaces, communities, and churches.

Are you quick to follow the Lord's leading when a need arises, or are you a reluctant servant who's preoccupied with your own plans and desires?

Any service we offer in Jesus' name will not be in vain. You'll experience the joy of giving and the assurance that the Lord won't forget your sacrifice.

Luke 8:48 MSG

(48)  Jesus said, "Daughter, you took a risk trusting me, and now you're healed and whole. Live well, live blessed!"

 

As a young man in the first few years of my lifelong journey with Jesus, someone taught me a prayer which I have never forgotten. It is a prayer every person can pray — indeed, a prayer every person must pray.

But, I must warn you....it is a dangerous prayer. It is simple, yet profound; specific, and yet comprehensive. It contains both a humble plea, as well as an audacious faith. This prayer is not likely to be prayed by people who are ambiguous about pleasing God, and it certainly would never find voice among those who are always concerned about pleasing man.

Nevertheless, it is a prayer that must be prayed.

But, it is dangerous. Dangerous because it is irreversible; it will most certainly be answered by God, even though at times you'll wish you'd never prayed it. Once He hears this prayer rise from your heart, the inevitable answer is set in motion – and all future cries to the contrary will fall as duds to the floor.

OK. I've given you fair warning. You now proceed at your own risk. I must caution you, however, that merely reading this prayer can be misconstrued by God as you actually praying it. So if there is any measure of cowardice in you stop right now! Do not proceed!!

But for those who are faithful and courageous, and who hunger for God to use your life to make a difference in this world – here's the dangerous prayer:

Lord Jesus, do in me anything you need to do, so that you can do through me everything you want to do. Amen.

Those who take this risk and trust Jesus with their lives, will find healing and wholeness over the course of their great adventure; they will live well, and be blessed in every way. And that, my friend, is worth taking the risk.