The Calling to Serve
Heart Happy
Audio By Carbonatix
When we think of living out our faith, it’s easy to get caught up in finding the “right” words. We often wonder if we can answer the tough questions or if we have enough theological knowledge to explain the depths of our doctrine. But looking back over the last few years—through moves, raising ten kids, and navigating the transitions of a growing family—I’ve seen that our most powerful testimony usually isn’t what we say. It’s how we serve.
As the body of Christ grows, the needs around us grow too. That is the beauty of the family of God! We are called to step up, lend a hand, and reflect the very love that first transformed our own hearts.
The Beauty of a Helping Hand
I remember a conversation I had a couple of years ago with a friend who had recently moved to Arkansas. Her face lit up as she told me how she and her family started attending a local church. From day one, they felt more than just “welcomed”—they felt wanted. Before they even had their boxes unpacked, sixteen people from a small group showed up at their new front door. They didn’t come to preach; they came to carry heavy boxes and organize the house. She was astonished. That community made a grueling move feel like a breeze.
Listening to her, I couldn’t help but travel back in my mind to a move we made many years ago. We had left behind everything familiar with a tiny newborn in tow. I can still see the face of the friend who walked through my door, not with a moving dolly, but with open arms. She spent the afternoon just holding my baby so I could focus on the mountain of boxes. That simple, quiet act of service lifted a weight off my shoulders that I didn’t even realize I was carrying. In those moments, God’s love became tangible.
Servanthood as Testimony
We don’t need grand gestures or a stage to share God’s love. Service speaks a language everyone understands. Edward Everett Hale famously said:
“I am only one. But still I am one. I cannot do everything. But still I can do something. And because I cannot do everything, I will not refuse to do that something that I can do.”
Think of the giants of our faith—Abraham, Joseph, Moses, and David. They didn’t lead because they were the wealthiest or the loudest; they led because they served. Even Stephen, as he faced his final moments, reminded his listeners of Moses’ calling at the burning bush:
"Then the Lord said to him, ‘Take off your sandals, for you are standing on holy ground. I have certainly seen the oppression of my people in Egypt. I have heard their groans and have come down to rescue them. Now go, for I am sending you back to Egypt.’” (Acts 7:33-34, NLT).
God sees the “groans” of the people in our neighborhoods today, and often, He sends us to be the rescue.
5 Action Steps to Serve Like Jesus
Our faith shines brightest through our actions. Here is how you can start reflecting God’s heart right where you are today:
1. Start Small, Serve Big: Begin in Your Circle
Service starts at home and across the street. Is there a neighbor who needs a meal? A friend who needs an hour of your time just to talk? Small acts have a massive impact when they are done with great love.
2. Join or Build a Supportive Community
If your church has small groups, jump in! These groups are the hands and feet of the church. If you can’t find one, gather a few friends to start your own “service circle” where you commit to lifting each other up and meeting local needs.
3. Be Present in Transitions
New moves, new babies, and new jobs are high-stress seasons. Offer to babysit, bring over a bag of groceries, or help unpack. When you show up during someone’s “messy” transition, God’s love becomes real to them.
4. Choose Service Over Comfort
Sometimes serving means getting your hands dirty or giving up a Saturday morning. Volunteer at a local charity or help with a community cleanup. Real love is willing to be inconvenienced for the sake of another.
5. Lead by Example
Bring your kids or your grandkids along when you serve! Let them see that being a follower of Jesus means having hands that are open and feet that are ready to move. Leading by example is how we spread the heart of servant leadership to the next generation.
A Prayer for a Servant’s Heart
Lord, thank You for the ultimate example of service in Your Son, Jesus. Help me to see the needs around me today with Your eyes. Give me a willing heart and ready hands to serve my family, my neighbors, and my community. May my actions speak louder than my words, and may everything I do bring glory to You. Amen.
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Weekly readings for the Daily Bible Podcast with Tricia and Michelle
May 18
Psalms 75-78
Unfailing Love
Today we’re diving deep into the emotional and spiritual landscapes of Asaph’s Psalms. Our journey through these texts uncovers the steadfast and unfailing nature of God’s love, a theme that resonates with timeless relevance.
Psalm 75: The Call for Humility and Worship
Psalm 75, set to the tune “Do Not Destroy,” begins with an exhortation to give thanks—a fitting start that frames the rest of the Psalm’s message about judgment and humility. Asaph warns the wicked against arrogance and defiance, reminding us that elevation comes from God alone. This Psalm encourages us to live in humility and proclaim the deeds of a just God.
Psalm 76: Thanksgiving for God’s Deliverance
Believed to be composed after a significant victory, Psalm 76 praises God’s awe-inspiring acts and His ultimate authority over earthly rulers. This hymn of thanksgiving serves as a reminder of God’s ability to deliver and sustain His people, encouraging us to honor Him in reverence and awe.
Psalm 77: Wrestling with Doubt and Remembering God’s Deeds
Psalm 77 portrays a vivid struggle between doubt and faith. Asaph, through his despair, makes a deliberate effort to remember the mighty deeds of God, particularly the redemption of Jacob and Joseph. This reflection shifts his perspective, allowing him to sing in the darkest times and see light in all circumstances.
Psalm 78: A Call to Remember and Teach
This teaching Psalm emphasizes the importance of recounting God’s works and laws to children, ensuring that even those yet unborn will learn of His faithfulness and guidance. Asaph uses the history of Israel to illustrate the consequences of forgetfulness and the rewards of obedience.
Word of the Day: Unfailing
Definition: Something that is constant, dependable, and endless.
Deuteronomy 4:9 calls us to never forget the deeds we have witnessed from God and to ensure these memories are passed down through generations. This passage highlights the importance of storytelling as a tool for preserving faith and building trust in God’s unfailing love.
Just as we reassure our children of our love through stories of past faithfulness, we must continually remind ourselves of God’s steadfast presence in our lives, even when His love feels distant.
Psalms and the major prophets are rich with references to God’s unfailing love, which is not shaken even when the world seems unstable. These scriptures encourage us to start each day by reminding ourselves of this steadfast love, which guides and protects us.
Join us on the Daily Bible Podcast as we explore these themes further and let the ancient yet ever-relevant words of the Bible inspire and guide your journey with God. Engage with us, learn with us, and deepen your understanding of what it means to live enveloped in God’s unfailing love.
May 19
Psalms 79-82
Compassion in the Psalms
Today, we explore the theme of divine compassion as expressed in several Psalms. These ancient songs offer profound insights into the nature of God’s mercy and our response to it.
Psalm 79: A Cry for Deliverance
Psalm 79 captures the anguish of the Israelites as Jerusalem lies in ruins. The psalmist pleads for God’s intervention—not just for restoration, but also for forgiveness. This lament highlights a crucial aspect of compassion: it is deeply intertwined with the desire for both deliverance and reconciliation.
Psalm 80: The Shepherd’s Guidance
In Psalm 80, the psalmist calls upon the Shepherd of Israel to lead His people back to safety and prosperity. The imagery of God as a shepherd underscores His ongoing care and commitment to guide and protect, a testament to His gentle and compassionate nature.
Psalm 81: The Call to Obedience
Psalm 81 reflects on God’s deliverance of Israel from Egypt, highlighting the continuous cycle of God’s saving actions and the people’s recurrent disobedience. The psalm serves as a reminder that compassion is not only about receiving God’s blessings but also responding to Him through faithful obedience.
Psalm 82: Justice and Sovereignty
Set in a heavenly courtroom, Psalm 82 depicts God among the “gods,” dispensing justice and asserting His ultimate authority over the earth. This psalm emphasizes that true compassion involves rectifying wrongs and ensuring justice, showcasing God’s role as the just and compassionate judge.
Word of the Day: Compassion
Definition: To empathize with someone who is suffering and to feel compelled to reduce that suffering.
The stories within these Psalms not only demonstrate God’s readiness to act in compassion but also call for a human response. Whether it’s through repentance, obedience, or calls for justice, we are invited to participate in the divine narrative by aligning our actions with God’s compassionate will.
Reflecting on God’s compassion leads us directly to the teachings of Jesus in the New Testament, who invites us to take His yoke upon us. This metaphor suggests that living under God’s guidance—His “yoke”—is not burdensome but a source of rest and peace for our souls, embodying the ultimate expression of compassion.
Walking in Compassion
The journey through these Psalms teaches us that to truly understand and receive God’s compassion, we must also be willing to walk in His ways. As we align our lives with His commands and follow the path of Jesus, we not only experience His mercy and kindness but also become conduits of His compassion to the world around us.
Join us on the Daily Bible Podcast as we explore these themes further and let the ancient, yet ever-relevant words of the Bible inspire and guide your journey with God. Engage with us, learn with us, and deepen your understanding of what it means to live enveloped in God’s unfailing love and compassion.
May 20
Psalms 83, 1 Chronicles 29:23-25, 2 Chronicles 1:1-13, 1 Kings 2:13-46 , 1 Kings 3:1-15
Divine Supremacy
Welcome to our latest entry alongside the Daily Bible Podcast, where today we delve into the profound expressions of divine supremacy and compassion found in the Psalms and their connection to historical biblical events. Join us as we explore these themes, their relevance today, and how they can inspire us in our faith journey.
Psalm 83: A Call for Divine Justice
Psalm 83 is a fervent appeal to God to thwart the plans of Israel’s adversaries. It portrays a stark reminder of God’s sovereignty and His ability to save, highlighting a community’s reliance on divine power in times of national crisis. The psalmist’s request is not only for deliverance but also for the acknowledgment of God’s supreme name among the nations.
The Reign of Solomon: A Testament to Divine Favor
The narratives from 1 Chronicles 29, 2 Chronicles 1, and the Book of Kings present Solomon’s ascension to power, showcasing both his wisdom and the pitfalls of political alliances through marriages. Solomon’s request for wisdom in governing his people, instead of wealth or longevity, pleases God, who grants him not only what he asked for but also riches and fame. However, these narratives also caution about the dangers of turning away from God’s statutes.
Word of the Day: Supreme
Definition: Highest in power, authority, or rank; paramount or superior to all others.
The consistent use of “LORD” (Yahweh) in scripture points to God’s active and ongoing involvement in the lives of His people. This covenant relationship implies not just God’s commitment to His people but also calls for their loyalty and faithfulness. For believers, this means salvation and protection, while for adversaries, it signifies defeat—as vividly depicted in Psalm 83.
The scriptural affirmations of God as the creator and sustainer of all things serve as a powerful reminder of His supremacy. From Genesis to Revelation, the Bible emphasizes that all of creation is under God’s dominion, and His plans are irrevocable.
- Genesis 1:1 introduces God’s creative authority.
- Exodus 3:14 and Isaiah 45:22 highlight His uniqueness and eternal presence.
- Colossians 1:16 and Revelation 1:8 underscore His ongoing role in creation and redemption.
Living Under God’s Supreme Authority
Understanding and acknowledging God’s supreme authority invites us to reflect on our own lives. It challenges us to consider how we align our daily actions with His will and how we respond to His call for obedience and faithfulness. Recognizing God as our supreme ruler does not diminish our freedom but enhances our understanding of our place within His divine plan.
Join us on the Daily Bible Podcast as we continue to explore these themes, letting the ancient, yet ever-relevant words of the Bible inspire and guide your journey with God. Engage with us, learn with us, and deepen your understanding of what it means to live under the supreme authority of God, enveloped in His unfailing love and compassion.
May 21
I Kings 3:16-28, I Kings 5:1-18, 2 Chronicles 2:1-18, I Kings 6:1-38, 2 Chronicles 3:1-14
Building Wisdom in the Temple
The Bible provides us with countless lessons and stories that resonate through the ages. Today, we delve into the fascinating life of King Solomon, focusing on his wisdom, generosity, and the construction of the Temple of God. These narratives, found in 1 Kings and 2 Chronicles, offer profound insights and timeless truths for our lives.
Solomon’s Wisdom in Judging Disputes (1 Kings 3:16-28)
In this remarkable story, two women come before King Solomon with a heart-wrenching dispute: both claim to be the mother of a surviving child. Solomon’s response is both shocking and ingenious. Without hesitation, he commands, “Bring me my sword.” This might seem reckless at first, but Solomon’s true wisdom shines through. He knew the real mother would rather give up her child than see him harmed. This story highlights the profound wisdom God granted Solomon, which often defied conventional expectations. Solomon’s wisdom transcended human understanding, revealing God’s perfect judgment and care for all, even the most marginalized.
Building the Temple: A Time of Blessing (1 Kings 5:1-18, 2 Chronicles 2:1-18)
Returning to the narrative, we witness Solomon’s preparation to build the Temple in Jerusalem. With the help of King Hiram of Tyre, Solomon secures the finest materials. This partnership, born out of King David’s friendship with Hiram, underscores the importance of relationships and alliances in accomplishing God’s work. The Temple, constructed with great splendor, becomes a symbol of God’s presence among His people. The construction of the Temple highlights the power of collaboration and the blessings that flow from God-ordained relationships.
The Grand Design of Solomon’s Temple (1 Kings 6:1-13, 2 Chronicles 3:1-14)
Solomon begins building the Temple 480 years after Israel’s exodus from Egypt. The detailed description of the Temple’s dimensions and materials paints a vivid picture of its grandeur. Notably, it was built on Mount Moriah, a location rich with biblical significance. The Temple’s construction, including its intricate stonework and golden overlay, emphasizes the reverence and dedication required to create a dwelling place for God. The meticulous construction of the Temple reflects the importance of honoring God with our best efforts and resources.
Completing the Temple: Beauty and Dedication (1 Kings 6:14-38)
The final stages of the Temple’s construction involved intricate wood paneling and gold embellishments. The care and craftsmanship dedicated to every detail illustrate the reverence with which Solomon approached this holy project. The massive cherubim with their 15-foot wingspans guarding the inner sanctuary symbolize the awe and majesty of God’s presence. The beauty and precision of the Temple’s construction remind us of the glory and holiness of God, deserving our utmost respect and devotion.
Word of the Day: Build
Definition: Construct (something) by putting parts or material together. The opposite is demolish.
We see Solomon building the Temple as David had asked him. Similarly, God builds us piece by piece. Just as the stones for the Temple were shaped without the sound of a hammer or chisel, God works quietly in our hearts, shaping us into His likeness.
First and foremost, we are the temple of the Holy Spirit.
"Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies" (1 Corinthians 6:19-20).
Building doesn’t happen alone. Solomon’s construction of the Temple involved a vast workforce and collaboration. In our spiritual lives, we also need each other. The community and shared effort, much like this podcast, help us build up the Lord’s kingdom. May we seek to build with the same wisdom and generosity as Solomon.
The stories of Solomon’s wisdom and the construction of the Temple offer profound lessons. They teach us about divine wisdom, the importance of relationships, the dedication to God’s work, and the quiet, transformative power of God’s building in our lives. Let’s commit to building our lives and communities with the same care and devotion, honoring God in all we do.
May 22
I Kings 7, 2 Chronicles 3:15-4:22
The Majesty of Solomon’s Palace
Today’s Bible reading takes us through 1 Kings 7 and 2 Chronicles 3:15-4:22, where we explore the construction of Solomon’s palace and the Temple of the Lord. These passages provide a fascinating glimpse into the priorities and craftsmanship of ancient Israel and offer us profound lessons for our lives today.
Solomon’s Palace and the Temple (1 Kings 7; 2 Chronicles 3:15-4:22)
Solomon spent 13 years building his palace, a sprawling complex that used many of the same materials as the Temple of the Lord. The detailed description of his palace reveals its magnificence, but it also raises an interesting point: Solomon devoted more time to his palace than to the Temple, which took seven years to complete. This contrast highlights the priorities of Solomon’s reign and invites us to reflect on our own values and the time we dedicate to God’s work versus our personal pursuits. The grand scale of Solomon’s palace compared to the Temple prompts us to consider where we invest our time and resources. Do we prioritize our relationship with God as much as our personal ambitions?
Huram’s Masterful Craftsmanship
Solomon enlisted a man named Huram, a master craftsman skilled in working with bronze, to create the intricate details for the Temple. Huram’s work included two pillars, bowl-shaped capitals, networks of interwoven chains, and 400 pomegranates that adorned the capitals. He also made ten water carts, the Sea with twelve oxen, ash buckets, shovels, bowls, and numerous other items. The sheer scale and beauty of Huram’s work emphasize the importance of dedicating our best skills and efforts to the service of God. Huram’s dedication to creating beautiful and functional items for the Temple reminds us that our talents and skills should be used to honor God and contribute to His work.
The Significance of the Temple
The Temple, with its intricate design and precious materials, was a physical representation of God’s presence among His people. It was built with the finest materials and adorned with gold, reflecting the glory and holiness of God. Solomon’s efforts in constructing the Temple show the reverence and dedication required to create a dwelling place for God. The grandeur of the Temple reminds us to honor God with our best efforts and to create spaces—both physical and spiritual—that reflect His glory.
Word of the Day: Pillar
Definition: A tall vertical structure of stone, wood, or metal used as a support for a building, or as an ornament or monument. It can also refer to a person or thing regarded as reliably providing essential support for something.
In the New Testament, the disciples and apostles were often referred to as pillars of the church. For instance, Galatians 2:9 mentions James, Peter, and John as pillars who recognized and supported Paul’s ministry. Similarly, 1 Timothy 3:15 describes the church as the “pillar and foundation of the truth.” And Revelation 3:12 promises that those who are victorious will become pillars in the Temple of God.
We are called to be temples of the Holy Spirit. As 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 says, “Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies.” This means allowing the Holy Spirit to fill us and making our hearts a place of worship.
Building doesn’t happen alone. Solomon’s construction of the Temple involved a vast workforce and collaboration. In our spiritual lives, we also need each other. The community and shared effort help us build up the Lord’s kingdom. We should aim to live lives adorned with behaviors and attitudes that honor God, striving to be shining examples of His love and grace.
Do we consider ourselves pillars in the community of faith? Are we living lives that reflect the craftsmanship and dedication that went into building the Temple?
The stories of Solomon’s palace and the Temple of God offer profound lessons about priorities, craftsmanship, and dedication. They remind us to invest our best efforts in honoring God and to see ourselves as living temples and pillars in His kingdom. Let’s commit to building our lives and communities with the same care and devotion, honoring God in all we do.
May 23
1 Kings 8:1-53, 2 Chronicles 5-6
Solomon’s Prayer and the Glory of God
Today’s Bible reading takes us through 1 Kings 8:1-11, 2 Chronicles 5, 1 Kings 8:12-21, 2 Chronicles 6:1-11, 1 Kings 8:22-53, and 2 Chronicles 6:12-42. We witness the magnificent dedication of the Temple by King Solomon, an event filled with deep significance and powerful lessons for our lives today.
Solomon’s Grand Assembly (1 Kings 8:1-11; 2 Chronicles 5)
After 500 years since the Exodus, Solomon summons all the elders of Israel to Jerusalem. The Temple’s completion and dedication occur during the Festival of Shelters, a significant Jewish holiday that commemorates God’s protection during the Israelites’ 40-year journey in the wilderness. Solomon’s assembly marks a momentous occasion where God’s promise to David is fulfilled, and His presence is visibly manifested among His people.
The Glorious Presence of the Lord (1 Kings 8:10-11; 2 Chronicles 5:13-14)
As the priests exited the Holy Place, a thick cloud filled the Temple, signifying the glorious presence of the Lord. The musicians and singers praised God, creating an atmosphere of reverence and worship. “He is good! His faithful love endures forever!” (2 Chronicles 5:13) The cloud’s presence signifies God’s approval and His dwelling among His people, reinforcing the importance of worship and reverence in our lives.
Solomon’s Prayer of Dedication (1 Kings 8:22-53; 2 Chronicles 6:12-42)
Solomon stands before the altar, lifts his hands toward heaven, and prays a heartfelt prayer of dedication. He acknowledges God’s faithfulness, seeks His continued presence, and asks for forgiveness and guidance for Israel.
“May your eyes be open to my requests and to the requests of your people Israel. May you hear and answer them whenever they cry out to you.” (1 Kings 8:52) Solomon’s prayer underscores the importance of humility and seeking God’s guidance and forgiveness in our lives.
A Place for All Nations (2 Chronicles 6:32-33)
Solomon’s prayer also recognizes the inclusion of foreigners who will come to know God through His great name and power.
“In the future, foreigners who do not belong to your people Israel will hear of you…and grant what they ask of you. In this way, all the people of the earth will come to know and fear you.” (2 Chronicles 6:32-33) The Temple is a place for all nations, reminding us that God’s love and salvation are available to everyone.
Word of the Day: Knelt
Definition: To position the body so that one or both knees rest on the floor, signifying submission and reverence.
Kneeling is a powerful act of worship and humility. Throughout history, it has symbolized submission to a higher authority and respect for the sacred.
The dedication of the Temple and Solomon’s prayer offer profound lessons about priorities, craftsmanship, and humility. They remind us to invest our best efforts in honoring God and to see ourselves as living temples and pillars in His kingdom. Let’s commit to building our lives and communities with the same care and devotion, honoring God in all we do.
May 24
I Kings 8:54-66, 2 Chronicles 7:1-22, I Kings 9:1-14
Faith and Abandonment
Today’s Bible reading takes us through 1 Kings 8:54-66, 2 Chronicles 7:1-10, 1 Kings 9:1-9, 2 Chronicles 7:11-22, and 1 Kings 9:10-14. We witness the culmination of Solomon’s prayers and the dedication of the Temple, an event rich with significance and lessons for our lives today.
Solomon Addresses the People (1 Kings 8:54-66; 2 Chronicles 7:1-10)
After Solomon’s heartfelt prayers to the Lord, he turns to the congregation of Israel to address them. The sacrifices and offerings to the Lord during this period were staggering in number, enough to feed a vast multitude for two weeks. The dedication occurred during the Festival of Shelters, drawing people from far and wide, including the distant Brook of Egypt. The sheer number of sacrifices symbolizes the people’s dedication and gratitude towards God, reflecting the importance of giving our best to the Lord.
The Fire of God and Divine Approval (2 Chronicles 7:1-3)
In a dramatic display of divine approval, fire comes down from heaven to consume the sacrifices, and the glory of the Lord fills the Temple. This visible proof of God’s presence leads the people to praise and worship Him.
“He is good! His faithful love endures forever!” (2 Chronicles 5:13)
God’s approval through fire and His presence filling the Temple underscores the significance of worship and reverence in our lives.
God’s Covenant with Solomon (1 Kings 9:1-9; 2 Chronicles 7:11-22)
God responds to Solomon, reaffirming His covenant with David and promising to watch over the Temple. However, God also issues a stern warning about the consequences of abandoning Him and worshiping other gods.
“But if you or your descendants abandon me and disobey the commands and decrees I have given you...I will reject this Temple that I have made holy to honor my name.” (2 Chronicles 7:19-20)
God’s conditional promises highlight the importance of faithfulness and obedience to His commands.
Solomon’s Humility and Generosity (1 Kings 9:10-14)
Solomon’s humility is evident as he stands before the altar, blessing the entire congregation and praising God for His faithfulness. He also generously gifts King Hiram twenty towns, though Hiram finds them lacking in value.
“Praise the LORD who has given rest to his people Israel, just as he promised. Not one word has failed of all the wonderful promises he gave through his servant Moses.” (1 Kings 8:55-56)
Solomon’s humility and generosity serve as examples of how we should acknowledge God’s blessings and share them with others.
Word of the Day: Abandon
Definition: To give up to the control or influence of another person, to withdraw from often in the face of danger, to withdraw protection, support, or help from, to give oneself over unrestrainedly.
In Solomon’s blessing, he prays, “May the Lord our God be with us as he was with our ancestors; may he never leave us or abandon us.” (1 Kings 8:57) However, God warns Solomon about the dire consequences of abandoning Him.
Loving God with Total Abandon
As the Temple was dedicated, the people demonstrated their love for God. In response, God appeared to Solomon, promising to hear their prayers, forgive their sins, and heal their land—if they remained faithful.
“Then if my people who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sins and restore their land.” (2 Chronicles 7:14)
Loving God with total abandon means trusting Him completely and surrendering every aspect of our lives to His authority. It liberates us from the need to control our own lives and allows us to experience the fullness of life that God intends for us.
