Simplifying Service

Therefore God also has highly exalted Him and given Him the name which is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those in heaven, and of those on earth, and of those under the earth, and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

PHILIPPIANS 2:9–11

Confessing the Lordship of Christ also simplifies our service. We hear a lot these days about cutting back, trimming our schedules, and simplifying our lives. If you want to simplify your life, just ask the two questions Paul asked on the road to Damascus when he met Jesus: “Who are You, Lord?” (Acts 9:5) and “Lord, what do You want me to do?” (v. 6). 

Consider also the advice that Mary herself gave to the servants at the wedding in Cana of Galilee. When the wine gave out, Mary said to the servants concerning her son Jesus, “Whatever He says to you, do it” (John 2:5). Can you see how following Jesus simplifies your service? You simply say, “Lord, what do You want me to do?” Then do whatever He tells you. 

A young preacher was called to a church known for its divisions. One of the women in the church came to him and said, “You’re going to have a very difficult job here, trying to please several hundred of us.” The preacher said, “I shall not be trying to please several hundred of you. I shall be trying to please one Person only. If I please my Lord, that ought to be good enough for you.” 

That young preacher gave a wise answer. It doesn’t matter whom we displease so long as we please the Lord. And if we displease the Lord, it doesn’t matter how many others we please. Philippians 2:9–11 reminds us that someday every knee shall bow before Jesus Christ and confess Him as Lord. For many, however, it will be too late. This Christmas, we need to go boldly to those who have not yet bowed their knee to Jesus and tell them the greatest news anyone could ever hear: “For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord” (Luke 2:11).

LWF Dr. Adrian Rogers