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Service: A Key to Spiritual Success
Article by William R. GrayServing God is a vital aspect of our Christian walk, essential for spiritual growth and success in all areas of life. With Christ's perfect example as our standard, we can trust that if God opens a door for us to serve, we will fulfill His will, as He supplies our lack through the Holy Spirit. Our role in serving is to maintain an attitude of availability and to recognize the call to serve when it comes, trusting God to work through us rather than relying on our own abilities. As we practice serving, we grow accustomed to God's guidance, gain confidence, and learn to set aside our human nature, humbly directing all praise and credit to Him. We must also understand that we cannot choose the areas in which we will serve; God determines our tasks, and there is nothing He calls us to do that we cannot accomplish well with our best efforts. No matter who benefits from our service or how they respond, it is ultimately God whom we serve. Serving should not be driven by emotions or a desire for approval, but by a steadfast commitment, similar to the dedication we show in tithing. As servants of Christ, we are to perform our duties with sincerity of heart, doing the will of God wholeheartedly, knowing that whatever good we do, we will receive the same from the Lord.
Parable of the Unprofitable Servants
Bible Study by Martin G. CollinsThe only way for a Christian to obtain increased faith is to manifest steadfast, persevering obedience grounded in humility with the help of God's Spirit.
God's Creation and Our Works
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughLike Joseph, we need to realize that God—not ourselves—is the Creator, engineering events that form us into what He wants us to become.
Prepare to Meet Your God! (Part Six): Complacency and Laodiceanism
Article by John W. Ritenbaugh and Richard T. RitenbaughThe prophet Amos preached a warning message from God against the complacency of the Israelites toward God and His way. Our nations should heed his warning.
Hebrews 12 and 13: Advice for the End Time
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughWe must lay aside every weight, accept God's chastening, receive encouragement from those who have gone before, and get back into the spiritual race.
The Elder Brother
Sermonette by Ted E. BowlingLike the older brother in the parable, we may have looked down on those who have stumbled. We are not equipped to judge anybody else's repentance.
Parable of the Talents (Part Two)
Bible Study by Martin G. CollinsThe Parable of the Talents is often confused with the Parable of the Pounds. These parables illustrate Christian responsibilities from different angles.
Many Are Called, But Few Are Chosen (Part Eleven)
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsThe Parable of the Talents teaches the need for diligence in using the gifts of God. God expects us to use our talents to His glory and in the service of others.
Facing Times of Stress: Persecution
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsPersecution involves a wide spectrum, ranging from torture, physical beating, social excommunication, imprisonment and death. Our boldness should match Paul's.
The Sacrifices of Leviticus (Part 5)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThe meal offering represents the intense self-sacrifice required in service to man. Our service to man must be done for God's sake rather than man's appreciation.
James and Unleavened Bread (Part Two)
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughThe epistle of James stresses both faith and works, emphasizing those factors necessary for growth, enabling us to produce a bountiful harvest of fruit.
The Laborers: Matthew 20:1-16
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughBecause God is completely just, we have an obligation to be content with what He has given us, to allow Him to use us for whatever purpose He desires.
Back to Life (Part One)
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsSickness and hardship should not erode our faith in God's ultimately favorable purpose for us. A current trial may serve as a witness for the good of others.