Having spiritual fullness means your acts of service are fueled by proper motivation for why you serve. In other words, "Sincere, energized servanthood must flow from an ongoing daily experience of God's presence and love." Genuine acts of service are never fueled by guilt, obligation, fear or ego. Have you ever witnessed someone serving without spiritual fullness? Perhaps they served in order to win points with God or approval from others. What did it look like?
Have you ever served when you knew you weren't healthy enough to do so?
What are the dangers of serving when you're not spiritually full? What do you think the long-term impact on your life would be if you continued to serve out of depletion?
Just as you follow Jesus' example of serving others, you can follow his example of refueling spiritually. Even Jesus needed occasions for refreshment, renewal and rest so he would not grow weary or lose heart. Often these occasions came through times of solitude. Scan the following passages, and make note of what Jesus was able to accomplish either just before or just after his time of retreating alone: Matthew 4:1-11; Matthew 14:13; Luke 6:12; Matthew 26:36-46.
Spiritual fullness is not only found in solitude, however. Time in God's presence, on your own or in fellowship with others, is necessary for your spiritual fullness.
To stay spiritually full, some people spend time journaling to God. Others meditate on God's Word. For some, having a spiritual conversation with a friend keeps them full. Still other people receive a "filling up" of sorts when they spend extended time in nature. What about you? What do you do to help keep you spiritually "full"? Are there actions you need to take today to help you replenish and refuel?
Friday...The Power of Doing Good
Leon Burdette Adult Education/Ministry/Assimilation Pastor 770-428-2100, ext. 1120 lburdette@wildwoodbaptist.org
"Becoming the Church Next Door" - Real Relationships - Selfless Service - Connecting People to Christ