JANUARY “It’s Time to Go Deeper”
SUNDAY’S SERMON SUMMARY
GO TO www.belmontbaptistchurch.com/sermons and listen to Sunday’s message.
Beats From Your Pastor’s Heart
SERVING IN LOVE
“For, brethren, ye have been called unto liberty; only use not liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one another.” (Galatians 5:13)
Christian freedom isn’t about self-indulgence; it’s an opportunity to become more like Christ, who gave His life in service. True liberty compels us to love and serve others in humility. Embracing this freedom transforms our lives and communities, reflecting the selfless love of Jesus.
In John 13, Jesus performs the humble act of washing His disciples’ feet. Though He was their Master, He took on the role of a servant, demonstrating profound love and humility. This act serves as a powerful model for us, illustrating that true leadership and freedom are expressed through serving others selflessly.
- Identify Opportunities to Serve: Look for a simple way to serve someone today—perhaps a coworker, family member, or neighbor. It could be as straightforward as offering a listening ear, helping with a task, or providing encouragement.
- Serve with a Loving Heart: Ensure that your actions stem from genuine love rather than obligation or the desire for recognition. Serving others with love glorifies God and reflects His character more than anything else.
- Cultivate Humility: Strive to serve without expecting anything in return. Emulate Jesus’ humility by putting others’ needs before your own.
Picture a water pitcher. If it’s only used for display, it helps no one. But when filled and poured out to quench someone’s thirst, it serves its purpose. Similarly, our lives, “filled with God’s love,” are meant to be poured out in service to others, providing refreshment and support to those in need.
Prayer – Father, help me use my freedom to serve and bless those around me. Give me a heart like Jesus—humble, compassionate, and willing to meet the needs of others in love. In His name, Amen.
Perform one intentional act of service today—unasked and without seeking recognition—to demonstrate the love of Christ to someone who needs it.
Personal Reflection: How do you currently use your freedom in Christ? Are there areas where you can shift from self-indulgence to serving others?
- Biblical Insights: What other biblical passages encourage serving others, and how can they complement today’s message?
- Practical Steps: What are some long-term ways you can incorporate serving others into your daily life?
Action Plan – Create a Service Journal where you can document the acts of service you perform, reflect on how they impact others and yourself, and pray for continued opportunities to serve with love.
WEDNESDAY’S PRAYER REQUESTS
Ann Stanley
Lamar Knight’s Family In CA Fires
Rebecca Smith
Ann & Robby Stanley in passing of son and brother Mrs. Franklin
Greg Schriener
Angela Bryan’s Sister
Ben Bruce
Carol Lawhead
Danny Jarrard
Darlene Wiggins
David Newby
Denise Hulsey – Jordan’s G’mother
Donna Plunkett’s Brother-in-law
Doris Loyd
Dr. and Mrs. Davis
Ellen Boyd
Eric Magnusson’s Mother
Eric Ward
Faith Burnette
Friend of Linda Hodge
Gail Sparks
George & Linda Alexander
George Calhoon
James Burnette
James Parker
Jessica Headrick
Jodi Bateman
John McClain’s Mother
June Cronan’s Sister
June Davis
Kailey Bateman
Kathryn Raines
Kim McClain’s Mother
Kim McClain’s Sister
Larry Barker
Lee Cronan
Lillanna Magnusson’s Mom
Linda Breedlove’s Sister – Sarah
Linda Hodges’ Sister
Linda Lanier
Lonzo Christian
Lori Blount’s Mother
Mary William’s Granddaughter
Mary Williams
Mary Williamson – Dana Jackson’s Mom
Nora Allison
Pastor Driskell
Rose Fuller – Pruitt-Monroe Nursing Home, Forsyth GA
Scott Lanier
Steve Michaels
Tom Witcher