servant of Christ

Proverbs 22, Luke 9, 1 Timothy 4, 1 Timothy 5

 

What does it mean to be a servant of Christ?  I think it is when I have sacrificed my selfish pursuits to follow Him:

 

23 Then he said to the crowd, "If any of you wants to be my follower, you must turn from your selfish ways, take up your cross daily, and follow me. 24 If you try to hang on to your life, you will lose it. But if you give up your life for my sake, you will save it.  (Luke 9:23-24)

 

As I consider what it means to be a young evangelistic graduate student and engineer, this passage gives me great encouragement:

 

7 Do not waste time arguing over godless ideas and old wives' tales. Instead, train yourself to be godly. 8 "Physical training is good, but training for godliness is much better, promising benefits in this life and in the life to come." 9 This is a trustworthy saying, and everyone should accept it. 10 This is why we work hard and continue to struggle, for our hope is in the living God, who is the Savior of all people and particularly of all believers.  11 Teach these things and insist that everyone learn them. 12 Don't let anyone think less of you because you are young. Be an example to all believers in what you say, in the way you live, in your love, your faith, and your purity. 13 Until I get there, focus on reading the Scriptures to the church, encouraging the believers, and teaching them. ... 15 Give your complete attention to these matters. Throw yourself into your tasks so that everyone will see your progress. 16 Keep a close watch on how you live and on your teaching. Stay true to what is right for the sake of your own salvation and the salvation of those who hear you.  (1 Tim. 4:7-16)

 

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank you for the Grace you have shown me by plucking me from certain destruction and birthing in me new LIFE!  Lord, teach me what it means to turn from myself, take up my cross daily, and follow you.  Lord, show me how to train for godliness and set an example for all believers in what I say, how I live and love.  Lord, please teach me the Truth so that I can teach others.  May you be honored and glorified, because you are worthy.  I pray in Jesus's name.  Amen.