Serve One Another

By Tony DeGruy

“You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love” (Galatians 5:13, NIV).

“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms” (1 Peter 4:10, NIV).

Success is often measured by how much we accomplish, accumulate, or achieve individually, but Scripture consistently redirects us to a higher calling: a life centered on love expressed through service. In times of stress, change, or uncertainty, this call becomes even more vital. When we serve others, we reflect the grace of God, embody the heart of Jesus, and participate in the interconnected body of Christ.

Galatians 5:13 reminds us that we are called to freedom—not a freedom that indulges the self, but one that expresses itself through loving service. Similarly, 1 Peter 4:10 speaks of living wisely and generously in the light of God’s grace, using our gifts to serve one another as faithful stewards.

Let us pause today to reflect on what it means to serve and how our acts of service bring God’s kingdom into view. Freedom is a powerful thing. Through Christ, we have been made free from the burden of sin, condemnation, and striving to earn God’s favor. Yet Paul, writing to the Galatians, warns us not to confuse this freedom with self-indulgence. In Christ, we are not free to do whatever we please; we are free to love and serve others.

Serving others is not limited to Sunday mornings or mission trips. We serve through our everyday choices—offering a listening ear, encouraging a friend, bringing a meal to someone who’s struggling, extending forgiveness when it’s undeserved. Each time we choose another’s welfare over our own, we live out the gospel.

Peter adds a crucial perspective: our acts of service aren’t merely kind gestures; they’re sacred stewardship. God has entrusted each of us with unique gifts, and we use those gifts to strengthen others. Service is a spiritual responsibility, which is integral to our walk with Christ.

Notice how both passages emphasize love and grace. Paul calls us to serve “humbly in love.” Peter says to serve as “faithful stewards of God’s grace.” It is only by God’s love and grace that we can pour ourselves out to others. Service rooted in obligation leads to burnout. But service rooted in grace leads to joy, renewal, and the visible outworking of God’s presence through God’s people.

Let your freedom in Christ find fulfillment in greater love. And let your service today reflect your deep gratitude for the one who first served you.

Reflection Questions

• Is there a gift or resource you have neglected to offer others?
• Who is the Spirit prompting you to serve so that they can experience God’s love through you?

Prayer

Lord God, thank you for the freedom you have given us through Christ. Help us not to take it for granted or use it selfishly. Teach us to serve others with humility, love, and joy. May every gift you have given us be used to bring glory to you and grace to others. Amen.