It’s a blessing to be a blessing!

I remember a time when I felt a bit stagnant, spiritually speaking. It was like I was just going through the motions, and despite my prayers, I couldn't quite shake off that feeling of spiritual staleness. Then, a simple message resonated with me: 'Try serving!' It sounds so straightforward, but the impact it had on my perspective was profound. Like that devotional page for May 16 featuring Romans 14:18, I discovered that actively looking for ways to serve others truly helps to shift focus from self. When I was consumed by my own worries and desires, that feeling of being stuck only intensified. But the moment I started to consciously think about how I could contribute to someone else's well-being, even in the smallest ways, a new sense of purpose began to bloom within me. Romans 14:18 says, 'For whoever serves Christ in this way is pleasing to God and receives human approval.' This isn't about seeking recognition, but understanding the spiritual fulfillment that comes from selfless acts. It's about aligning our actions with a higher calling. My personal journey has shown me that when I pray for opportunities to serve, my eyes are opened to needs I might have otherwise overlooked. That prayer asking Jesus to show opportunities for service became a daily ritual for me. It's not always about grand gestures; sometimes it's simply offering an encouraging word to a friend, helping a neighbor with their groceries, or volunteering a little time for a cause I care about. I've found that these acts, big or small, are incredibly powerful in overcoming spiritual staleness. They pull me out of my own head and connect me with the world around me. This shift in focus from self has been transformative. Instead of dwelling on my own perceived shortcomings or anxieties, my energy is redirected towards love and compassion. It brings a unique kind of joy that sticks with you, a feeling of making a tangible difference. If you're also feeling a bit lost or spiritually uninspired, I wholeheartedly encourage you to 'Try serving!' Start with a prayer similar to what I adopted: 'Dear Jesus, today I ask for your guidance. Open my eyes and heart to the opportunities you've placed before me to serve others. Help me to see beyond myself, to truly listen, and to act with love and compassion. Show me how I can be a blessing to someone today, no matter how small the act. May my life be a reflection of your grace. Amen.' Embracing this mindset has not only brought me immense personal satisfaction but has also deepened my faith. It truly is a blessing to be a blessing, and the journey of serving others is a beautiful path to finding true joy and purpose in life.