Scripture is full of examples of hard workers - carpenters, tent makers, tax collectors, fishermen, shepherds, preachers, the list goes on. Our trade is irrelevant, what is important is if we are presenting our work and our “bodies as a living sacrifice” Romans 12:1. Whether in washing dishes or curing cancer, where is our heart in the service?

Recently, I left my job in ministry because I felt my heart slipping. What once caused me to jump from bed excited to tackle, eager to serve, and help had become a thru the motions must I do it again montage. I had replaced a heart of service with bitterness. I had become so consumed with the work that I had neglected something vital. It wasn’t the outward circumstances that needed improving. It was me. My acts of mercy had lost their cheerfulness and my leadership had lost its zeal.

SERVE

When Christ knelt at the feet of the disciples in the upper room, He did not grumble that no one else took the initiative. Instead, He willing did the task of a servant even with crucifixion looming. He did not say look what I’ve done or am about to do, but look at what I am doing.

“If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet. For I have given you an example that you also should do just as I have done to you.” John 13:14-15 ESV

We are to give back to God in our service, to do each work for Him. But what happens when we lose heart? When grumbling replaces the joy of service? When our saltiness sours and our light dims?

RE-FOCUS

In my instance, I discovered that my focus had shifted from serving God to serving man. I had lost my joy because I had lost the purpose. I had lost the willingness to kneel before others and wash their feet because I had placed the importance of work over ministering to my own soul. When we have lost our ability as leaders to serve with a grateful heart as God would intend then it is time to remove ourselves before true damage is done (to ourselves as well as others). Since leaving my ministry position I have felt a renewal and passion that would not have come had I stayed. My heart was broken and needed mending. For now, I am in a season of refreshment and renewal.

Walking away to regain focus is not always possible. Perhaps you’ve lost the joy of serving your family, dishes and laundry piling up to high. Perhaps you’ve lost the passion in your career but finances dictate you remain. Whatever the reason, joy can be restored. If the laundry is too high and you find yourself grumbling, becoming angry at those you are called to serve and love, walk away from the chore and find a quiet place to pray and rest. The same with work. It is not the task that is the problem, it is something deeper and much more important. When my heart is not right with God, when I’ve neglected the one most important relationship in my life, is when my light becomes hidden and others do not see the glory of God in me.

It is my prayer for you today that if you are in a season of disquiet that you will find the longing of your heart. May God’s light shine brightly where you are hurting, providing healing and equip you to serve Him with joy.

This post was first published at WivesofFaith.org.