We, as a staff, have been discussing Spiritual Development, specifically, how it affects our willingness to serve.  Even relatively new followers of Jesus are often very excited to begin serving in various capacities within the church. So, WHAT MOTIVATES US TO SERVE?  It seems that our "motivation" may change as we develop a deeper relationship with Christ.  For example, new believers tend to serve in order to feel a part of the group, to meet new friends, to be a "good person," because it feels good to "give back," or even simply because it's fun.  To be honest, I think even those of us who've been in a relationship with Jesus for a long time sometimes fall into the habit of serving because of what it offers us. 

But, does that really COUNT?!?  If we're doing it to benefit ourselves (even if sub-consciously), have we really glorified God? We may be doing the right things for the wrong reasons.  The true reason to serve is to bring glory to God and to indirectly serve Christ ("...whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me." Matt. 25:40). It's also to love others, as we are commanded to do throughout the Scriptures.

So, HOW CAN WE MAKE SURE OUR MOTIVES ARE PURE?  More importantly, HOW CAN WE USE SERVICE TO DEEPEN OUR RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD?

Take an inventory of where we're serving.  

For the most part, we all tend to serve in roles that we inherently enjoy--mom's teach in the kids' ministry, musicians play in the band, chatty folks are greeters...you get it.  Of course, that is evidence that God has blessed us all with talents that SHOULD be used to glorify Him.  BUT, when there is a hole that needs filled--particularly, when the responsibility stinks(!), we run the other way.  One of the greatest signs of someone who truly loves Jesus is that they'll step up to even the bad jobs--and they'll do it with a cheerful heart, because they're serving their Lord.  

When's the last time you volunteered to do something gross (Jesus washed dirty feet and touched people with contagious diseases), when's the last time you sacrificed your own personal comfort (Jesus stayed awake and fought off fatigue so that he could teach & heal), when's the last time you shared a meal with someone you dislike (Jesus ate with prostitutes and society's outcasts).

Sure it's fine to serve where you're most talented--it's who God made you. But, when there's a crappy job to be done--and no one to do it--maybe that's an oppotunity to truly test your motivation...and a chance to grow closer to Jesus.