Scripture is full of verses about serving others.
Take a look at Ephesians 6:7, for example: “Serve wholeheartedly, as if you were serving the Lord, not people.”
Or Hebrews 13:16: “And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.”
It is clear that God wants us to support other people.
And that serving others means we are also serving the Lord.
However, let me ask you a question.
If your neighbor asked to spend your whole weekend painting his house, would you do it?
What if your old relative reached out because he wanted someone to drive him around for a week?
It starts becoming ridiculous at some point
Serving others when you don’t really want to can make you hateful.
And it can push you away from God’s path.
So what are you supposed to do?
Well, as they say, the Devil lies in the details.
The key to serving others the right way is to know the extent you are willing to go.
Before you try to assist other people ask yourself what you want.
Try this mental exercise…..
If no one judged you for pleasing yourself, what would you like to do?
This is a question that seems “taboo” for Christians.
But let’s take a look at Ephesians 6:7 again: “Serve wholeheartedly, as if you were serving the Lord, not people.”
The word “wholeheartedly” is also a part of the verse.
We have to serve others because of the goodness in our hearts, not out of necessity.
The simplest way to do that is by knowing what makes you happy.
In other words, understand your own boundaries and desires.
When you are satisfied with your decisions, you can support people in need without resentment.
So the next time someone asks you for a favor, don’t feel guilty if you want to say “no.”
Consider your own desires first.
And be brave enough to speak your mind.
Otherwise, we are just people-pleasers, not Christians.
God Bless!
The Christian Tech-Nerd 