September 3: BEYOND

See it:

In the midst of a very severe trial, their overflowing joy and their extreme poverty welled up in rich generosity. For I testify that they gave as much as they were able, and even beyond their ability. 2 Corinthians 8:2-3a (NIV)

Obey it:

When I talk to married couples, I ask them, ‘What is one of the most dangerous enemies of a home?’ The response may seem strange, but it’s true. It’s the routine-filled life. Today being the same as yesterday, which was the same as the day before… Different date in the calendar but it’s the same thing. Monotony kills love, withers away passion, and dampens relationships. How does this apply to service? I have three challenges for you:

1.      Leave your comfort zone. Give more than you think you can. Give until it hurts. Agree with God that you will pay for or participate in some service project in your local church, support an evangelistic endeavor in the community, or help a person in need. Then do it, once and for all, and put God to the test. Go beyond your ability.

2.      If you want to have what you’ve never had before, give what you’ve never given before. In other words, if you keep on giving as you’ve always done before, you’ll keep on having what you’ve always had before. Isn’t it time to rise to the next level? God beyond your comfort level.

3.      Don’t wait for conditions to be right. Serve today. If you wait for all conditions to be just right, you probably will never serve. We don’t want to be reckless. We also don’t want to miss what God is about to do. Ask God to open doors and then walk through them. Serve in something that stretches you. Go beyond the possibilities.

Share it:
1. Let things go. Laugh heartily at yourself.
2. Share your last bit.
3. Stop everything to help someone else.

My prayer today:
Lord, I give you permission to stretch me, challenge me, and push me. Help me go “beyond.” Amen.

Season of Service