✝️✨Pastor Daren Mehl Quote: “And when we’re doing ministry, the ministry doesn’t belong to us. The fruits of it are His.”
Bible Verse: John 3:27 (LSB) — “John answered and said, “A man can receive nothing unless it has been given him from heaven.””
Devotional Summary: John answered the report about Jesus with a truth that removes our pride: no one can receive anything unless heaven gives it. John knew his place; he was sent to prepare the way for Christ, not to replace Him. In the same way, the work God puts before you is a trust, not a prize you earned. Your time, strength, gifts, opportunities, and even the people you meet are under His care. Whether you greet someone at church, teach a child, pray in secret, or speak about Jesus to a friend, the Lord can work through you. The value of that service is not measured by how many people notice it.
Sometimes we worry that we are not doing enough, especially when another person seems more gifted. But John did not defend his numbers; he pointed away from himself to the Savior. Jesus is the One who saves and brings people from darkness into His light. We are grateful servants, given grace to share His Word and show His love. This frees us to serve faithfully without trying to own the results. Ask the Father to show you the work He has placed before you today, and receive it with a thankful heart.
Reflection Question: What task or opportunity has God given me to receive from heaven, and what would trusting Him with the fruit change in how I serve today?
Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, every good gift comes from You. Holy Spirit, instruct me to receive my calling with humility rather than trying to earn a place of importance. Teach me to serve with the strength and grace You provide, whether anyone notices or not. Keep me faithful in the small tasks before me, and remind me that the fruit belongs to Jesus. May my service be a clear witness to Your goodness. In the Name of Jesus, Amen.
Psalm: Psalm 90:17 (LSB) — “Let the favor of the Lord our God be upon us; and establish for us the work of our hands; establish the work of our hands.”
Reflection Song: “Yet Not I But Through Christ in Me” — Jonny Robinson, Rich Thompson, and Michael Farren (CityAlight). Worship video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hwc2d1Xt8gM
Why This Song: This song keeps our attention on Christ’s grace and strength rather than our own ability.