Serving out of strength and anointing
When I serve, even when my service seems meagre or minor, I can do so out of great strength and anointing, as “the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead” (Rom. 8:11) is a powerful and enabling force within me.
As I help Pete, my buddy, drywall his house, the gift of helping is a strong manifestation of God’s Holy Spirit in me. His powerful love empowers and motivates me to do it. And, while we are working together to accomplish the task at hand, we are encountering God’s presence. As each edge is cut and as each screw is driven home, things are coming to life and growing in us that are of kingdom quality. In a hilarious and wonderful way, what happens amid the sounds and smells of male culture becomes worship; it is powerful, and it is eternal.
I have become free from the yoke of the Mosaic Law. I now serve, not because I have to, but out of great power and daily anointing.
In reality, I serve because there is a force within me, God’s force. There are special abilities or gifts inside me, given by God, which have become my impetus for action. They prompt me to serve. And the results are marvelous.
When wronged, I can return justice
Whenever I am injured without just cause, I can turn the other cheek.
And, in like manner, I can become an advocate for others whose legal rights are being violated, or who are being influenced by what is wrong, immoral or unethical.
When hurt, I can heal
The pain that I encounter in the context of insult or injury can be turned around to become forgiveness and grace to my adversary. Also, the story of my misfortunes and God’s sufficient grace in the midst of them can become a tool of restoration to others who have suffered similar agonies.
When weak, I can be strong
Every weakness becomes an opportunity for God’s muscle. God, who said, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness,” (2 Cor. 12:9a) is my might. His power is actually manifested through and because of my weakness.
I, in turn, can supply that same strength to the weakened, the unfortunate, the marginalized or the unqualified. As a result, they are supported and they will prosper; they are put back in the game and given the opportunity to become competent and contributing members of society.
