Chapter 35- God's Power in your Weakness

We spent a lot of time (several chapters) talking about using our strengths and talents to serve God- now let's talk about using our weaknesses for the same thing! I had never put much thought into why I have the weaknesses I have. I guess I just always told myself that 'we all have a cross to bear' and if I had to say why... I guess I would say that it was to build our character and form us into the person God intends us to be. I never contemplated the possibility that God would use our weakness for his Glory and Power. There's so much to think about here.

I challenge each of you to make a list of your weaknesses and put some thought into how you (or should I say HE?)can use those weaknesses for his Glory. (Feel free to post & share some of your thoughts with us if you want)

Chapter 34 - Thinking Like a Servant

Our mind is a powerful force. It can make us and it can break us. "Thinking like a servant" was another great topic choice to study. It really all starts on how we think about serving - our attitude is crucial. I agree, God is always most interested in why we do something than in what we do. This might be true for all of us if we think about it. I am at my very best state of mind when I am serving - thinking of others and giving. We cannot be a servant if we are full of ourselves and self-serving achievements. We need to be humble, giving with gladness and serve for God's glory. Let God renew your mind and adjust your thinking habits so He can use you to the fullest. I have to pray for this everyday.

Chapter 33- How Real Servants Act

It's true, actions do speak louder than words. The main idea behind this chapter is that in order to be a true servant, you must take action. Good intentions do not excuse anyone from stepping up and doing what needs to be done. It sounds so simple, but often we let "life" get in the way of our service. It's very easy to pack so much into our schedule that we leave no room for opportunities to serve. We must cultivate our awareness so that we consciously seek ways in which we can step up.

As you ponder your own situation and how you have (and/or have not) been able to serve, consider these points:
1) You must make yourself available to serve- It's not always going to be convenient or pleasant.
2) You must pay attention to needs We have to train ourselves to acknowledge and act when needs are identified- because opportunity passes quickly. You don't want to miss your chance to serve. Remember John Wesley's motto "Do all the good you can, by all the means you can, in all the ways you can, in all the places you can, to all the people you can, as long as you ever can."
3) Do the best you can with what you have to work with Don't fear that you're not good enough. Even if what you do has some flaws, it is better than doing nothing.
4) Put your heart into everything you do It doesn't matter if it's a small task or a huge project- give it all you've got.
5) Be faithful and reliable Finish what you start, or at least see that it is finished- even if you have to call for help. Fulfilling responsibility, keeping promises, and completing commitments keep us trustworthy and dependable.
6) Consider your motives carefully Don't serve for the approval or recognition of others. It doesn't count unless it is truly heartfelt and sincere.