The Silent Rewards of Serving: How Faith Sustains Us Beyond Praise
Sometimes it can be hard to serve people, especially when it feels like that service goes unnoticed. Many, if not most of us do not expect a round of applause or a congratulatory handshake for our hard work, but sometimes a simple thanks or nod of notice is greatly appreciated.
I often have to remind myself that although serving my family may feel like a thankless job, it's far from that. Gratitude isn't always given in vocal praise or adoration, sometimes it's in smaller simpler things. Like a sweet giggle from my children when their favorite dessert is smelled in the kitchen, the warm smile of my husband coming home to a clean house, and the simple quiet of enjoying an evening together as a family rather than running around tidying.
As I read through scripture, I am reminded of how Jesus served His people repeatedly, expecting nothing in return. Jesus loved and served His people in a far greater capacity than I could ever serve my family. He was not seeking out praise or even a simple thanks for His work. He understood that the work He was completing was honoring to His heavenly Father, even when people withheld praise. (Acts 20:35, John 13:3-5, 1 Peter 4:10-11)
"Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ." -Colossians 3:23-24 (ESV)
We are first and foremost serving our Heavenly Father, and he sees the fruit of our hands and our hearts. (Proverbs 31:31).
The thing about praise is that it doesn't fill your soul at the end of the day. This is because we find our true satisfaction in Christ alone. He is our portion, and what a beautiful inheritance we have in working for Him. (Psalm 16:5-9)
Sister, the praises we receive on earth are fleeting. I encourage you to lean into God's Word and to find satisfaction in living your life for Him alone. Watch as the fruits of your labor for Christ spill out and bless those around you.
Soli Deo Gloria!
Meet the Author || Maddie Powers
Maddie is a follower of Christ, wife of nine years, and mother to three young boys. She is a nurse turned stay-at-home mom and homemaker. Her passion is to share with wives, mothers, and women who are struggling with the mundane to see the beauty, importance, and worship that can be found in it. Maddie enjoys days spent by the ocean, hikes with her family, and a good book at the end of the day.
