God has a volunteer workforce. We are all invited to co-labor with Him (see 1 Corinthians 3). When we ‘raise our hand’ and join up with Him and many other volunteers the key is have a good attitude. The following are 3 Attitudes of a Spiritual Laborer that make us useful in the Master’s hands.
Attitude #1 Willing to Respond to a Call to Co-Labor
The Lord invites us to join up with Him, but we have the option to choose whether we will serve. He will accomplish His purposes with us or without us. It is a privilege to serve with Him. We were designed for this destiny.
• Personal calling – you will know when He is asking YOU! – Moses – Ex 3:4; Samuel – 1 Sam 3:10; Mary – Luke 1
• God can use need or circumstances to call – Paul with the Macedonian vision – Acts 16:9; Paul had a vision of a man of Macedonia standing and begging him, “Come over to Macedonia and help us.”
Attitude #2 Willingness to Work Very Hard
Volunteering for Jesus is hard work! It requires serving others who will frequently no be grateful. It requires perseverance for many tasks are difficult and complex. The example of laboring found in Mat 9:35-38 is one of a common field hand worked the barley or wheat harvests with a small curved knife. It was back-breaking work in the heat of the day. Laboring with Jesus is not for wimps!
Attitude #3 Willingness to Risk Everything and Sacrifice
Those who volunteer to serve with Jesus give everything they have. Billy Graham said, “Salvation is free, but discipleship will cost you everything you have.” Volunteers commit themselves to God for their reward in heaven, not expecting rewards in this life. They put Christ above comfort; living for world to come. Two passages mentioning reward for service are: Mark 10:29-30 and Luke 18:29-30.
How’s your attitude? Have you raised your hand to volunteer for service? Having second thoughts? It’s time to re-up! Raise your hand!
