Called - Part Two: Our Relationship with Others

As Christians, we are all called by God. Our lives are meant to be in response to the salvation we have gained through Christ Jesus. But what exactly are we called to? We all question, what does God expect of us? 

Throughout the Bible, God called people to a variety of actions and lifestyles for His purposes. As we trudge through the typical routines of our days, months and years, we may look to what God’s will is for our specific occupation or the roles we hold within our families. But what are we called to as a Christian; As a part of the Body of Christ?

The answer to these questions is two-fold. To put it simply, we are called to have a relationship with God and to build relationships with those around us to share the Gospel. And these two sides to our walk of faith must stay in balance. We must pursue the strength, love and mercy of our God to be able to continually pour into the lives of others. To build relationships with those around us, we must serve, show, and spread.

SERVE

“You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh;

 rather, serve one another humbly in love.”

Galatians 5:13, NIV

“For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve,

and to give his life as a ransom for many.”

Mark 10:45, NIV

To serve is simply to do things for others. They don’t have to be big things, just doing what meets their needs---listening, small gestures, giving encouragement or hope. Praying is another way we can serve others. Ask how you can pray for someone and then follow-up with true interest and concern. Everyone needs to feel loved, and the best way to do that is by showing them that they are seen and heard. For some, helping lighten their burden may be what they need. In some circumstances, offering food, babysitting, yard work or other services can allow someone to focus their energy on healing their grief or trauma. Ultimately, remember that being the hands and feet of Christ does not require a lot of money or influence; simply serve where you are. Do what you can for those you interact with every day. Pray that God reveals those who need you to serve them for His purposes. Allow Him to open your eyes to those opportunities to bring Him glory by loving others.

SHOW

“In the same way, let your light shine before others,

that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”

Matthew 5:16, NIV

“In everything set them an example by doing what is good.

In your teaching show integrity, seriousness” 

Titus 2:7, NIV

Rosa Parks said, “Each person must live their life as a model for others”. From the time we are small children, we learn a lot from watching others. We instinctively will create our own behaviors based on what we see. We must always strive to do better and be better, for our own benefit, but also for those who are looking to us as a role model. An easy checklist for what we should be striving for as a follower of Christ is the Fruits of the Spirit. Galatians 5:22-23 says But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.

Rest assured, there is always someone looking to you as a role model. Notice in Titus chapter 2 it doesn’t call us to be perfect, but it does call us to have integrity. We should be honest and share the truth of where our strength comes from. Our lives aren’t perfect and we need to make sure we are not striving to make it appear that way. Doing so can hurt our witness. Instead, when someone may question your lack of fear, anxiety or troubles, make sure they know that your life is not void of struggle, but instead, God provides peace and guidance. 

SPREAD

“Declare his glory among the nations, his marvelous deeds among all peoples.”

Psalm 96:3, NIV

“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son

and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.

And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” 

Matthew 28:19-20 NIV

The biggest calling for us is to share the love and redemption we have found through our salvation. Christ’s sacrifice is the heart of our faith and the “Good News” we are called to share. When I was younger, I always assumed your testimony is simply the story of how you choose to accept Christ, which that is true. However, I have since realized that your testimony goes from one story of you accepting Christ to a whole series of stories and situations where God can be seen in our lives. It is so important to share those stories with those who need to hear them. Our personal experiences with a God that loves us more than we can imagine allows the Holy Spirit to reach those who hear it.

We are to take in the love, hope and wisdom we have received in Christ. Then we are to use the strength we have been given to pour into those around us. We are called to be the body of Christ and share the Gospel with every one.

Read Part One of this Article for ways to build your relationship with God.

Casey Wayne

Monthly Contributor