Servant or Slave?
Servant or Slave?
I sometimes feel like a slave, don’t you? Taking care of the physical demands of housework and homework really can make you feel like there is no time left to breathe or think. I have slaved away all day on many different things and ended up further behind by the time nightfall arrived, only to wake up in the morning (not feeling refreshed) feeling like another day has arrived to slave again. I sometimes feel like a slave rather than the servant I am supposed to be.
However, Jesus doesn’t want slaves; He wants servants. So just what does that mean?
Jesus had a lot to say about servants. Here is only a sampling:
A servant is to be humble.
The disciple is not above his master, nor the servant above his lord. Matthew 10:24
Rather than having proud and haughty attitudes of just how much we do for everyone, we need humility, knowing the awesome opportunity we have to serve the living God by serving others in His Name.
Jesus pleased His Father by being a servant.
Behold my servant, whom I have chosen; my beloved, in whom my soul is well pleased. Matthew 12:18
If we need an example of servanthood, we look to Jesus. Even His own Father said to look at the One He is pleased with – His servant. If you want to please the Father, then look at His Son and His servanthood to see just how to do that.
Servanthood is leadership.
And whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant. Matthew 20:27
But he that is greatest among you shall be your servant. Matthew 23:11
We live in a culture that screams, “Let others serve you – don’t be used by them!” Jesus counters that cry and counts servanthood as the greatest and highest goal to strive for. People who would rather serve than be served are highly esteemed in the eyes of God.
A servant who is faithful will one day enter into the joy of the Lord.
His lord said unto him, Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord. Matthew 25:21
We may never see our reward on earth, but there awaits a reward so inexplicable that will be more than worth the wait. And, while we are waiting, we can find joy in knowing that God is well pleased with our service – if our hearts are right.
So, if you’re feeling like a slave to the kids, the schedule, your spouse, your church, etc., then stop and re-evaluate. If you’re just working because it has to get done, you’re a slave. If you have a relationship with the One you love, and want to please Him, you are a servant of His and for Him. Let’s stop being slaves in our minds and determine in our hearts to be good and faithful servants of the Lord.
Serving the Lord with you!
And, as always, let us know how we can serve you,
Deborah Wuehler
Senior Editor
The Old Schoolhouse Magazine
