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Service- it's not only why He came, but how He came. Philippians 2 says, taking the very nature of a servant...And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself and became obedient to death (vs 7,8). I almost missed my opportunity to follow His example.
I knew was what the Holy Spirit was prompting me to do. The temperature was dropping. There she stood willing to give her time in the cold, ringing that seasonal bell. The least I could do was to offer to buy her coffee or hot chocolate. Easy-peasy, right? Should be, but you see, I don't like to have attention drawn to me, even for doing something good for somebody. I sat in my car mulling over whether I would be obedient.
What if she doesn't like coffee or hot chocolate?
What if she looks at me like I'm crazy?
What if people notice?
Hello, crossroads. I had to decide would I go with what's comfortable or what's obedient. Y'all, I almost drove away. It's sad, but that is my typical response. Praise, God, for being willing to work on this heart. I'm tired of petting my flesh.
In all honesty, it took everything in me to get out of that car. It took making the right decision each step of the way.
Just keep walking don't walk by her.
No.
Just give her the money and keep moving.
No.
Ask her if she like coffee or hot chocolate.
Yes.
I did. I don't say that to illicit your praise. Simply, I need to share with you that obedience, big or small, is a choice- a hard choice in many cases. Jesus obedience was harder than the decisions we have to make on our hardest days.
In this season, when the rush is upon us, remember why He came and how He came- in utter obedience. As I celebrate, Jesus, I want to follow His model of service.
May your day be full of a sweet awareness of His presence!
In His Name,
Jennifer
11 comments:
Obedience aside, what a thoughtful thing to do! Last night at church we were discussing the parable of talents and how the master praised the first two servants, not for increasing his money, but he said "well done good and FAITHFUL servant." Isn't it good to know His isn't concerned with our results, but with our faithfulness? Way to be faithful, girl! :)
love this post! thanks for sharing this beautiful testimony!!
Wow, that's an awesome! I love that He is concerned wiht our faithful not our results. You know, that was on thing I debated about- "Would it really make a difference?", but He wasn't concerned with that. ah good stuff!
Thank you so much, Charissa!
Ugh! I've been there too Jennifer! It's always so sweet to obey, but can be hard to do it. Love this sweet story and praying the next time will be easier.
Looking forward to getting to know you better through She Seeks!!
xoxo, Sam
Sam, it can be so diffcult, but the favor I felt after I asked her that simple question and handed her her coffee was confirmation enough for me. I'm excited about you joining the She Seeks team, and I can't wait to get to know you better!
So glad you obeyed although it was a struggle and I'm sure that lady appreciated your kindness... have to agree with Rebecca, about how God delights in our faithfulness. Well done, Jennifer.
Linked up after you at Bonnie's blog.
What a beautiful moment of grace. I discover His wonder in your obedience in this small, but beautiful act. His heart in you - grace-filled.
Thanks, Dolly! It was a struggle. Glad you stopped by the blog- yay for Faith Barista Jam!
Jeri, I love how even the smallest acts of obedience bring glory to His name! *hugs*
In utter obedience. I love that. And this: "Praise, God, for being willing to work on this heart." Yes, I echo that praise. I am so grateful for His mercies. Great post.
Oh Caroline, if He wasn't willing to work on this heart, I'd be a mess. I'm glad you feel the same way! :)
Oh Caroline, if He wasn't willing to work on this heart, I'd be a mess. I'm glad you feel the same way! :)
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