FRIDAY: CONSISTENCY OVER CONVENIENCE
KEY PASSAGE
“Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.”
DEVOTIONAL
Serving others can be exemplified by looking at the results in Galatians 6:9-10. A farmer who is working a field does not stop working once the seed is scattered. He must nurture and care for the field consistently. The farmer has built up habits and routines to make sure the seed that was spread will grow into a harvest. If the farmer relied on how he felt, working the field would not be his first choice, because it is hard, inconvenient work.
Serving others is similar. It also requires effort and willingness to be inconvenienced. When we serve others, it may start off as feeling uncomfortable. The important thing to remember is that consistency is key.
Consistency builds familiarity and familiarity can lead to comfort. What may start as something that feels out of place will quickly become second nature when it is done consistently. Jesus set the example for us: serving is not optional in the kingdom of God, it is mandatory. Serving others not only helps expand the kingdom, it expands our capacity to love others.
CHALLENGE
One way to help expand your capacity in anything is to repeat it often. Growth requires repetition. In what ways can you challenge yourself to serve on a more consistent basis this month? It can be with your family, your friends, your small group, or even getting plugged in consistently on a Serve Team at church.