Developing Spiritual Effectiveness Through Daily Intimacy With GodSample

THE DANGER OF SERVING WITHOUT INTIMACY

It is easy to become preoccupied with service and lose sight of the One we serve. Martha was passionate about serving Jesus, yet she overlooked the most important thing: intimacy with Him. On the other hand, Mary chose to sit at the feet of Jesus and listen attentively. Jesus affirmed Mary’s choice, saying, “Mary hath chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away from her” (Luke 10:42).

When your service for God surpasses your intimacy with Him, spiritual fatigue and frustration soon follow. Many sincere believers have become discouraged because they prioritized activity over relationship. Do not forget the principle: your relationship with God is the foundation upon which all effective service is built. The first call for every believer is to intimacy- to be with Him. In Mark 3:14, Jesus called them to be with Him, so that He might send them.

Effective service must always flow from intimacy. David understood this deeply when he said, “One thing have I desired of the LORD, that will I seek after…to behold the beauty of the LORD” (Psalm 27:4). He recognized that genuine power and effectiveness came from his consistent fellowship with God, not just his abilities or status.

Are you serving from a place of intimacy with God, or has your relationship taken a backseat to your ministry activities? Always have this at the back of your mind: if you nurture intimacy with God, your service will naturally become more fruitful and impactful.

THOUGHT TO PONDER:

Have your ministry tasks taken precedence over your intimacy with God? How can you intentionally choose the "good part" daily?

PRAYER:

Lord, help me to always prioritize intimacy with You over activity. Draw me closer to Your presence and let my service flow naturally from our relationship. In Jesus’ name, Amen.