As Christians we know that whatever we do in or outside the church is ultimately for the Lord. However, we may have trouble identifying whether our attitudes or motives are correct. How can we determine if our hearts are in the right place when serving Him?

Oftentimes we reflect on the negative parts of our servitude rather than the parts that were done well. This may be out of humility, a fear of pride, or even self-deprecation. Whether it was a wrong note played on the piano or a word translated wrong, there is always something critical we can say about ourselves.

Although we are taught to be humble, there is a fine line between humility and self-deprecation, as well as confidence and pride. Since self-deprecation tends to be very self-focused, it can be a hidden form of pride, which can become manipulative if we end up using it as a means to avoid responsibility or to seek attention. Humility however, brings us joy in servitude and allows us to glorify God while still being able to carry out the work in a confident manner.  

In my own servitude, I was always fearful of playing piano for the church because I lacked confidence in my ability. But after realizing that humility meant playing through the mistakes with confidence and simply finding joy in the Lord, I changed my attitude and heart toward this area of service. No longer did I belittle my abilities; instead I used them to serve the Lord.  

“But let your ‘Yes’ be ‘Yes,’ and your ‘No,’ ‘No.’ For whatever is more than these is from the evil one” (Mt 5:37).

As this verse says, let us be honest with ourselves. If we know we’ve done well in our service, let us not contemplate whether or not it was carried out well. It is true that there is always something we can improve upon, but to be joyful in knowing that we have done well is just as important—as long as we do not become complacent or store up pride.

Since our hearts are more important than our abilities, let us examine ourselves so we can understand our hearts better when we serve. When we know that our hearts are in the right place, then we can wholly give thanks to God after we have completed our work for Him.

Reflection Questions

1.      When reflecting on your own servitude, do you tend to look at what was done well or only at what was flawed?

2.      Have there been times when you know you have served well but are unwilling to accept it? If so, why?