Foursquare Gospel Church in Nigeria Grace for Living Devotional Monday October 23, 2023 TOPIC: SACRIFICIAL SERVICE

BIBLE READING:

ACTS 9:35-43

35 And all that dwelt at Lydda and Saron saw him, and turned to the Lord. 36 Now there was at Joppa a certain disciple named Tabitha, which by interpretation is called Dorcas: this woman was full of good works and almsdeeds which she did. 37 And it came to pass in those days, that she was sick, and died: whom when they had washed, they laid her in an upper chamber. 38 And forasmuch as Lydda was nigh to Joppa, and the disciples had heard that Peter was there, they sent unto him two men, desiring him that he would not delay to come to them. 39 Then Peter arose and went with them. When he was come, they brought him into the upper chamber: and all the widows stood by him weeping, and shewing the coats and garments which Dorcas made, while she was with them. 40 But Peter put them all forth, and kneeled down, and prayed; and turning him to the body said, Tabitha, arise. And she opened her eyes: and when she saw Peter, she sat up. 41 And he gave her his hand, and lifted her up, and when he had called the saints and widows, presented her alive. 42 And it was known throughout all Joppa; and many believed in the Lord. 43 And it came to pass, that he tarried many days in Joppa with one Simon a tanner.  

KEY VERSE:

“This woman was full of good works and alms-deeds which she did.” Acts 9:35  

MEDITATION:

In the church I pastored many years ago, there was a couple that I admired so much. They were both church workers. I observed that each time I had to give out souvenirs to appreciate my workers at the end of each church year, this couple would shop for the souvenirs, package them, label them for all the workers listed and help distribute them. They did this for four consecutive years before my wife noticed that they never provided any souvenir for themselves, and never requested to be given any despite the fact that their names were always listed among the first 5 workers benefiting from this pastoral encouragement. They gave their resources and time freely without any expectation of reward or recognition. The couple understood the meaning of sacrificial service – following Jesus’ footsteps in letting go legitimate privileges and opportunities.   

For one to render quality and lasting Christian service that will have eternal reward, sacrifice is a primary requirement. The example of Dorcas, a disciple in Joppa, in the bible reading of today, demonstrated sacrificial lifestyle that attracted the miracle that brought her back to life via the hands of Peter, the Apostle. The testimonies of the brethren about her were overwhelming. She was a true follower of Jesus. She endeared herself to the brethren.  

What testimony will brethren in your church give about your service in the household of God?  

PRAYER:

Father Lord, help me to render sacrificial services as a true follower of Jesus.

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR:

ISAIAH 65-66, 1 THESSAOLONIANS 5