Build up the Church

Remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he himself said, “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” Acts 20:35

D.L. MOODY
What makes the Dead Sea dead? Because it is all the time receiving, but never giving out anything. Why is it that many Christians are cold? Because they are all the time receiving, never giving out.

ERWIN LUTZER
God has ordained that, in one way or another, we should serve others. If any one of us is not doing his or her part, the work of God suffers. God has given us gifts, the purpose of which is so that nobody would ever have to do the job alone, but work together as the body of Christ to do what God expects.
I can’t remember a Christmas at the Lutzer family where there was a gift under the tree that was left unopened. It is a tragedy that God has given us gifts, but often they lie dormant, unopened because of fear or a variety of other excuses. I have often noted how Christians complain if they are not edified by the church, but they themselves neglect the opportunity to edify others. This is what I promise: If we take the time to invest in others, we ourselves will be blessed in return. As Moody said, let’s not be like the Dead Sea that stagnates, but may our lives be a stream of blessing for others.

PRAYER
Father, I want to thank you that Jesus Christ ordained that we all be a part of something greater than any one of us. May I be committed to blessing others even as you have greatly blessed me. Grant me opportunities to serve the body of Christ with the gifts you gave me.

REFLECTION QUESTIONS
What is your giftedness and how do you use it to serve and edify the Body?

What opportunities has God given you to serve with your gifts? What stops you from serving with your gift?