Hi everyone! This month I continue our focus on the core value of being Servant-hearted.
Why would the fruit of the Spirit be included in servant-hearted? Good question. To me it’s a matter of one’s character, the posture of the heart, if you will.
When Jesus was here on earth, He was the living breathing example for us to follow of how we are to treat others while we serve. For example, in the Bible in the book of John chapter 13, Jesus washed the disciples’ dirty feet before they ate. Now feet were considered the dirtiest part of the body. You wash your own feet, and certainly not anyone else’s. That would be doing things beneath you and positioning others above you. Jesus was outwardly displaying his inward character. It reveals His heart.
In Colossians chapter 3:23-24) “Whatever you do, do it from the heart, as something done for the Lord and not for people, knowing that you will receive the reward of an inheritance from the Lord. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.”
There’s a quote that is attributed to Saint Francis of Assisi way back in the early 1200’s, that says “preach the Gospel at all times, but only use words if necessary”. His actions certainly matched the posture of his heart.
We are all serving the Lord in whatever role we may be in. Does your fruit reflect your character? Do your actions match your words? Are you walkin’ the walk or just talkin’ the talk? Do you Put your money where your mouth is. Or are you Big Hat… No Cattle?
The beautiful encouragement in this is that we are all walking out our own journeys. I thank God for the grace he’s given me as I continue to work on the posture of my own heart, wanting it to reflect the heart of Jesus.
Here’s a question – of all of the Fruit of the Spirit in Galatians 5:22-23, are there ones that you feel characterize you more than others, and is there one you struggle with?
So one last thought… Love Is as Love Does. So show me the Love! – Sandy