✨ Devotional Blog: What Are Your Intentions in Serving God?

📖 Scripture Focus: The Heart of Service

“But the LORD said to Samuel, Look not on his countenance, or on the height of his stature; because I have refused him: for the LORD seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the LORD looketh on the heart.” — 1 Samuel 16:7 (KJV)

💭 Reflection: The Importance of Intentions

When it comes to serving God, it’s easy to get caught up in the roles we hold, the tasks we do, and the positions we fill. But God is not nearly as interested in our "what" as He is in our "why." Our intentions matter deeply.

Think about Martha and Mary (Luke 10:38–42). Martha was busy serving, but her heart was distracted. In contrast, Mary chose to sit at the feet of Jesus, listening intently. Both were near the Master, but only one’s intention aligned with His desire. God isn’t impressed with activity; He delights in authenticity.

🪞 A Personal Moment: My Journey to Sincerity

I remember a season when I poured myself into service. I was involved in church events, ministry assignments, and coaching calls. Yet, in my heart, I was seeking approval. I thought if I worked harder, people would see my value. But God whispered to me, “Daughter, I don’t need your busyness; I want your sincerity.”

That moment changed me. I realized He wasn’t asking me to impress Him or others. Instead, He wanted me to serve with love, gratitude, and purity of heart. This revelation transformed my approach to service.

📖 Connection to Scripture: The Heart Behind the Offering

Jesus also warned us in Matthew 6:1: “Take heed that ye do not your alms before men, to be seen of them…” He reminds us that serving for applause, comparison, or recognition may garner human praise, but it won’t receive Heaven’s reward.

Consider Cain and Abel (Genesis 4:3–5). Both brought offerings to the Lord. One was accepted, and the other was rejected—not because of the gift itself, but because of the intention behind it. This illustrates how God values our hearts over our actions.

🌱 Application: Transforming Duty into Delight

Serving with the right intentions transforms duty into delight. It shifts us from "have-to" into "get-to." When we serve with love, gratitude, and a pure heart, our hands may be busy, but our hearts remain surrendered.

Ask yourself this week:

• Am I serving for applause, approval, or assignment?

• Do my actions point people to me, or to Jesus?

• Is my service rooted in gratitude for what He’s done?

  
  

Reflect on these questions. They can guide you to a more fulfilling service experience.

🌟 Embracing Your Identity in Christ

As you navigate your role, remember that your identity in Christ is paramount. You are not defined by your tasks or titles. Instead, you are defined by your relationship with Him. Embrace this truth. It will empower you to serve authentically and joyfully.

✨ Closing Thought: The Power of Our Why

Our intentions matter more than our titles, positions, or platforms. The world may see what we do, but God sees why we do it. Let’s ensure our "why" points to Him. When we focus on our intentions, we can serve with joy and purpose.

🙏 Prayer: A Heart of Service

Lord, purify my heart as I serve You. Remove any desire to impress others or prove myself. Help me to serve with love, gladness, and purity of heart. Let my hands be strong, but my intentions be sincere, so everything I do brings glory to You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

💌 Was this devotional a blessing? Share it with a friend and subscribe for more encouragement.

🌍 Join Our Community

If you’re looking for a supportive community, consider joining us at The Pulpit Wife. We aim to empower Christian wives, especially preacher's wives, to rediscover their identity and purpose. Together, we can embrace our faith and leadership roles with expectation, purpose, intention, and consistency.

Let’s journey together in faith and service!