Serve

What is it exactly that God’s people are supposed to do? In Serve, Steve Robinson writes on loving your church with your heart, time, and gifts. Robinson begins by boldly declaring that we are supposed to serve God and not ourselves.

I was most moved to read about the reason or why we serve. In church settings, Robinson says he typically hears that people serve because we love God’s people. While that is a good reason, it simply is not good enough. He pointedly asks: What happens when you stop loving the people? He takes us to Romans 12:1, explaining that it must be God’s mercy that moevs us to serve. We serve because Jesus first loved us, and so we serve because Jesus first served us. I was convicted to check my motives and recalibrate them towards Christ.

In the Strength that God Supplies

In a memorable and practical chapter, Robinson shows how God shapes us for service. Surprisingly, Moses and Paul both served out of their experiences and weaknesses. I was reminded that God can use anyone for his purposes. Moreover, God has given each a spiritual gift to exercise for the good of God’s people. I was motivated to celebrate the gifts of others more than my own – especially the gifts that we might not see on a stage – by offering encouragement and support.

Robinson closes with a call to serve where God has placed you, especially in regards to your local church. He exhorts us to serve in the strength that God supplies. This book is clear and compelling. I am motivated to spur each other on in love and good works, and to continue serving – eager to hear my King say, “Well done, good and faithful servant.”

I received a media copy of Serve and this is my honest review. Find more of my book reviews and follow Dive In, Dig Deep on Instagram - my account dedicated to Bibles and books to see the beauty of the Bible and the role of reading in the Christian life. To read all of my book reviews and to receive all of the free eBooks I find on the web, subscribe to my free newsletter.