Making Myself Available

I've heard a couple of sermons lately on being a slave to Christ, eager to do His will and make yourself available to serve Him in all things. That's quite a challenge--certainly the notion of being a slave has a very negative connotation. On top of that, our natural selves long for freedom, independence, doing what we want, when we want. We'd prefer to serve Christ on our terms, in our timing.

But I am trying to fight against my natural leanings and strive to follow in whatever Christ calls me to do. I'll confess, it's not easy, and I fail and give in to my flesh many, many times. I suppose the key word here is that I'm trying and not giving up.

This morning on my way to work I prayed that I would make myself available to serve God however He wanted me to do so today. Sure enough, He gave me plenty of opportunities to act on that. I was able to help a co-worker with some of her work, which she is neck-deep in right now.

Later, I was asked to create a poster and flyers to promote an upcoming event at our church. Thankfully I had some free time tonight to work on those so they'll be on display come Sunday.

When I got home from work, a little white dog (named Cotton, according to his tag) wandered into my backyard. I tried calling the phone number on his tag, and when no one answered, I drove him to the address listed. His owner was grateful to get him back, and I was thankful to have been able to bring the reunion about. I know I'd be frantic with worry if my dog went AWOL, so it was a blessing to be able to bring Cotton home.

I mention these incidents not to brag on myself by any means, but rather to say that when I pray for God to use me in some way, it never fails that He provides me with the opportunity. Do I always take advantage of the opportunity to serve? Sadly, no. But I am finding that when I do make myself available, God not only uses me to bless others, but I myself am blessed as well.

My challenge to you today: Commit to God that you will make yourself available for serving Him today, and ask Him to open your eyes to the opportunities that He gives you. Don't be afraid of giving up time, money or energy in your service--trust the Giver of all things to richly bless you as you serve Him.