First, God educates us. He teaches us the heart of a servant, which is at the very core of what it means to follow Jesus. Our Lord said in Matthew 20:28, "Just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many." Think about that. The King of Kings came to serve, not to be served. In John 13, we see Jesus washing His disciples' feet—a task reserved for the lowest servant. He did this to show us that true greatness in the Kingdom of God is found in serving others, not in seeking power or recognition.

This mindset of service doesn’t come naturally. It’s something we learn by studying God’s Word and allowing His truth to reshape our hearts and minds. Philippians 2:5-7 calls us to have the same attitude as Christ, who "made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant." This is where our journey begins—by understanding and embracing the heart of a servant, modeled perfectly by Jesus.

But learning alone isn’t enough. God doesn’t just educate us; He also equips us to serve effectively. Ephesians 4:11-12 tells us that Christ has given various gifts to His people "to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up." You see, God has given each of us unique gifts, talents, and skills. These are not just for our benefit, but to be used in service to others.

Whether it’s teaching, hospitality, leadership, or mercy, every gift is a tool meant to bless others and build up the church. 1 Peter 4:10-11 reminds us that "each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms." And 2 Timothy 3:16-17 tells us that all Scripture is given to equip us for every good work.

The challenge for us is to recognize these gifts and allow God to develop them in us. This might mean stepping into new roles or seeking training and mentorship. It’s part of the process of being prepared and equipped to serve where God has placed us.

Finally, after educating and equipping us, God empowers us to serve with confidence and boldness. This is where we often feel the most vulnerable because it means stepping out in faith. But we are not called to serve in our own strength. Acts 1:8 promises, "But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses..." The same Spirit who empowered the early church empowers us today.

2 Timothy 1:7 assures us that "God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-discipline." And Philippians 4:13 reminds us that "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." When God calls us to serve, He also empowers us to do so effectively. This is not about relying on our abilities alone but trusting that God will work through us by the power of His Spirit.

Friends, God educates us with His truth, equips us with the gifts we need, and empowers us by His Spirit to serve others in His name. Serving isn’t just something we do—it’s who we are called to be as the body of Christ. Whether we are teaching, helping, encouraging, or leading, each act of service is part of fulfilling God’s purpose for our lives.