April 23, 2026

djohnstoncc
2 minutes ago
3 min read

HEART OF A SERVANT

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE

“As apostles of Christ we certainly had a right to make some demands of you, but instead we were like children among you. Or we were like a mother feeding and caring for her own children. We loved you so much that we shared with you not only God’s Good News but our own lives, too. Don’t you remember, dear brothers and sisters, how hard we worked among you? Night and day we toiled to earn a living so that we would not be a burden to any of you as we preached God’s Good News to you.”

1 Thessalonians 2:7-9 NLT

TODAY’S THOUGHT

Paul gives us a beautiful window into the heart of his team. Even though they had the "right" as apostles to expect certain things, they chose a different path. Their motivation wasn't what they could get from the people, but what they could give to them.

Here are three characteristics of a true servant-heart:

1. A Spirit of Sacrifice

Paul didn't come with a list of demands or financial guarantees. I remember a minister once telling me he’d plant a church only if I guaranteed him a salary higher than my own! He found someone to pay a high salary, but when a "better" opportunity came along, he left and the church folded. God’s work flourishes when leaders are willing to go "all in" regardless of the personal cost. When we follow God’s will, our focus should be on the mission, not the paycheck.

2. The Care of a Mother

Paul uses the image of a mother feeding and caring for her children. In the original language, this implies a nursing mother. Think about that: a nursing mother must eat well to produce milk for her baby. If she doesn't feed herself, she can’t feed her child. As followers of Christ, we have a responsibility to influence others, but we can't give what we don't have. We must maintain a healthy spiritual diet, so we have "good milk" to offer those we are mentoring.

3. A Commitment to Hard Work

Paul wasn’t afraid to get his hands dirty. He worked "night and day" as a tentmaker so he wouldn't be a burden. We often pray for God to provide while sitting on the couch, but I’ve found that God’s provision flows best when we are working our hardest. Jesus called us to "pick up our cross"—and that is physical, strenuous work! God blesses diligence, not laziness. Whether in our jobs or our ministry, we are called to be faithful workers.

Today’s Reflection

The Surrender: Is there something God is calling you to do that you’ve been hesitant to start because of the personal cost?
The Diet: How is your "spiritual diet"? Are you feeding yourself enough of the Word to have something of value to share with others?
The Labor: Are you putting your full effort into the tasks God has placed before you today, trusting Him to provide as you work?

TODAY’S PRAYER

Holy Spirit, help me to have the mindset of a servant. Show me where I need to adjust my discipline so I can better accomplish Your work. I surrender my "rights" to You and ask for the strength to work heartily for Your kingdom today. Amen.

“Scroll down to share what you feel God is saying based on today’s reading.”