Following Christ With Gladness

Christ is to be our example in all things of life!  This we have heard many times, and  also noted  many times  in the Scriptures, and is an eternal truth we must always observe day by day as we live for Him. There are a number of Scriptures which bear record to this great truth. One such place would be Matthew 20:26-28. Just as Christ was a servant, we must learn to be the same. That is the only way to greatness. However, there are some matters to be considered in our service as we follow the example of Christ.  We are admonished by the apostle Peter, “For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ  also  suffered  for  us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps.”  (1 Pet.1:21).

            Our  service is rendered  with love! Whatever we do will mean nothing if it is not done out of a pure love for God and His way of righteousness. The apostle Paul’s statement now comes to light. “And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, and have not charity, it profiteth me nothing.”  (1 Cor. 13:3).  It  is “faith  which  worketh  by  love.” (Gal.5:6). You may remember that this was a problem with the church at Ephesus. The Lord said of them: “I know thy works, and thy labour, and thy patience. . . Nevertheless, I have somewhat against thee, because thou  hast  left  thy  first love.” (Rev.2:2-4).  Let  us follow the example of Christ with love and gladness.

            Our  service is rendered   because  God  commanded  it!   (Jno.12:26).  The  high-minded of  this world  and the self-centered  person finds such a command very difficult. However, the humble and  loving servant of God will find it easy, and an honor. Someone has said, “We ought to find our lot in life and build a service station thereon.”  God commanded, and we arise in obedience to His commands with love and gladness.

            Our service is rendered to accomplish good! If we follow Christ we without doubt will fill this world with good. “As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men . . .” (Gal.6:10). Dorcas was a woman “full of good works.” (Acts 9:36). We are to be “a pattern of good works”  and  “zealous of good works.” (Tit. 2:7,14). Help us to follow  Christ in  service, should be our desire and prayer each day, and to examine our hearts to make sure it shall be done out of love and sincere gladness.

. . . . Fred  House