When we think of living out our faith, we often focus on sharing the right words, answering questions, or explaining doctrines. But sometimes, our most powerful testimony isn’t in what we say—it’s in how we serve. As more people come to know Jesus, the needs around us grow. And that’s the beauty of the family of God: we’re called to step up, to lend a hand, and to reflect the love that first changed us.
Just yesterday, I met a new friend for coffee. She shared how she and her family started attending a local church, and from day one, they felt welcomed. Before they knew it, they were invited to a small group—a gathering of church members who connected weekly for friendship and support. When they moved into their new home, sixteen people showed up to help them unpack and settle in. She was astonished by the kindness and support from her new community, and it made a challenging move feel effortless.
Listening to her, I remembered our own move many years ago. We had left behind our familiar home and support network, with a newborn in tow. I can still picture the friends who arrived to lend a hand. One even came simply to hold my baby while I unpacked boxes—her quiet act of service lifted a weight off my shoulders in a season of overwhelm. In those simple moments of help, God’s love became tangible, reminding me of His heart for community and care.
When we talk about sharing God’s love, we don’t need grand gestures or profound words. Service speaks volumes. Edward Everett Hale once said, “I am only one. But still I am one. I cannot do everything. But still I can do something. And because I cannot do everything, I will not refuse to do that something that I can do.” Each of us has a role, a way we can reach out, serve, and love—even in the small moments that seem unnoticed.
Charles Swindoll, in his book Improving Your Serve, captures this so well:
“It is not for our own glory that faithful service is so clearly prescribed throughout Scripture, but for the glory of God. And God has given us the incredible honor of being His stewards to carry out the work of Jesus Christ through faithful service—in our neighborhoods and around the world.”
Think of the great leaders in the Bible—Abraham, Joseph, Moses, David. They didn’t stand out because of wealth or knowledge. They stood out because they served, putting others’ needs before their own to lead people back to God. Stephen, one of the first followers of Christ, used his last breaths to testify to God’s goodness, recounting Moses’ calling:
“Then the Lord said to him, ‘Take off your sandals, for you are standing on holy ground. I have certainly seen the oppression of my people in Egypt. I have heard their groans and have come down to rescue them. Now go, for I am sending you back to Egypt.” (Acts 7:33-34, NLT)
When Jesus came to earth, His mission was clear: “to serve and to give” (Mark 10:45). Not to be served. Not to seek the spotlight.
Swindoll reminds us, “True servants, when demonstrating genuine love, don’t keep score.”
Our faithfulness isn’t measured by the applause we receive but by the quiet moments of love we pour out. As Christians, we’re not called to do everything but to do what we can. To love God with all our hearts and to love our neighbors as ourselves.
So, next time we’re tempted to think we need the perfect words to share our faith, let’s remember: service is our greatest testimony. The heart of God is made known through hands that are open, feet that are willing, and hearts that are eager to love. Because in the end, it’s not about what we know; it’s about who we serve. And by serving, we bring a little more of God’s love to a world in need.
5 Action Steps to Serve Like Jesus and Reflect God’s Heart
Our faith shines brightest through action. When we serve, we don’t just meet physical needs; we create powerful connections that show God’s love in real, tangible ways. Here’s how you can start:
1. Start Small, Serve Big: Begin in Your Circle
Look for everyday ways to serve within your family, friends, or local community. This could be bringing a meal to a neighbor, lending a hand during a move, or simply being present for someone who needs to talk. Small acts, big impact—service begins right where you are.
2. Join or Build a Supportive Community Group
If your church or local community has small groups, join one to build deeper connections and opportunities to serve. Find community in small groups that share God’s love through service. If you can’t find one, consider starting a small group with friends to support each other and serve your community. True connection happens when we gather to serve and lift each other up.
3. Be Present in Times of Transition or Need
New moves, job changes, births, and life transitions are challenging. Offer to babysit, bring a meal, or help with practical tasks during these times. Serving when others feel stretched or alone leaves a lasting impact. When you serve in someone’s toughest moments, God’s love becomes real.
4. Choose Service Over Comfort—Get Out of Your Comfort Zone
True service sometimes means stepping out of our comfort zones. Volunteer at a local charity, help with a community project, or find ways to serve beyond your usual routine. Your faith grows when you choose to serve, even when it’s inconvenient. Real love is willing to get uncomfortable.
5. Lead by Example—Inspire Others Through Service
Let your actions inspire others to join you. Bring your family, friends, or church members along in serving. Whether it’s a service day at your local shelter or a weekend of helping neighbors, be a leader in showing God’s love. Lead by example—spread God’s love through servant leadership. Serving together builds faith, love, and community.
Don’t Forget:
Edward Everett Hale said it best: “I am only one. But still, I am one. I cannot do everything. But still, I can do something. And because I cannot do everything, I will not refuse to do the something that I can do.”
Our greatest testimony is not in how much we know but in how much we care. Let’s show God’s love through service, one small act at a time.
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Weekly readings for the Daily Bible Podcast with Tricia and Michelle
November 18
Acts 18:24-28, Acts 19:1-20, 1 Corinthians 1-3
The Power of Daily Faithfulness
Acts 18:24-28
Today, we meet Apollos, a passionate Jewish believer from Alexandria. Apollos arrives in Ephesus with a deep knowledge of the Scriptures and a fervent spirit but only knows the baptism of John. When Priscilla and Aquila hear him speak, they lovingly guide him to a fuller understanding of Jesus, including the Holy Spirit’s role. Apollos receives their instruction and even travels to Achaia, where he powerfully aids believers, showing how God’s work in our lives often involves learning from others and being open to growth.
Acts 19:1-20
Paul arrives in Ephesus, where he finds twelve believers who had only experienced John’s baptism. After explaining the fullness of Christ’s work, Paul lays hands on them, and they receive the Holy Spirit. Paul then spends two years teaching daily in the hall of Tyrannus, dedicating hundreds of hours to making disciples. The power of the Gospel spreads so profoundly in Ephesus that people are healed even through items that have touched Paul. Yet, as often happens, opposition arises. Local craftsmen, fearing the loss of business due to Paul’s message, incite a riot. Still, the church is growing, and Paul’s faithful daily teaching plants seeds that will continue to flourish.
1 Corinthians 1
Paul writes to the church in Corinth, addressing concerns of division. He urges believers to focus on Christ, not on their leaders. Corinth was a city of wealth, pleasure, and diverse beliefs, yet Paul calls these believers to unity and wisdom in Christ. He reminds them that the wisdom of the cross may seem foolish to the world, but it’s the true power of God. Even those who consider themselves “wise” by worldly standards must recognize their need for God’s wisdom.
1 Corinthians 2
Paul contrasts worldly wisdom with spiritual wisdom, which the Spirit reveals to believers. True understanding comes not through human effort but through the Spirit’s work. He emphasizes that faith does not rest on human wisdom but on God’s power, encouraging believers to rely daily on God’s Spirit to deepen their understanding and guide their lives.
1 Corinthians 3
In this chapter, Paul addresses the immaturity in the Corinthian church, urging them to grow spiritually. He explains that some plant, others water, but God is the one who makes things grow. Paul uses the metaphor of building on a solid foundation—Christ. As believers, our daily actions build on this foundation, and we are called to choose wisely what we build, allowing God’s wisdom to direct us rather than the ways of the world.
Word of the Day: Daily
Definition: Done, produced, or occurring every day or every weekday.
The Power of Daily Faithfulness
Today’s readings remind us of the importance of daily dedication to our faith. Apollos taught boldly and received correction daily, growing into an even more effective witness. In Ephesus, Paul spent hours each day teaching, guiding, and discipling, resulting in a powerful, Spirit-led movement that changed lives and impacted an entire city.
Paul’s letters to the Corinthians emphasize that growth in faith and wisdom isn’t instantaneous. It takes time, commitment, and a willingness to build on the foundation of Christ. Daily, we are invited to choose God’s wisdom over the world’s, cultivating unity, humility, and spiritual maturity.
A daily walk with Christ keeps our hearts soft to His voice and strengthens our relationship with Him. Just as we rely on daily routines to maintain our physical health, our spiritual health thrives through daily time in God’s Word, prayer, and fellowship with other believers. In doing so, we experience the Spirit’s renewing presence, equipping us to live out our faith with courage and conviction.
November 19
1 Corinthians 4-7
Honoring God with Our Body
1 Corinthians 4
Paul starts by addressing how he and other leaders should be viewed: as servants of Christ and stewards of God’s mysteries. He reminds the Corinthians that his primary accountability is to God, not to them. Paul endures hardships, a lack of basic needs, and constant trials, yet he remains steadfast in his calling. He urges the Corinthians to imitate him—not because of his struggles but because he perseveres despite them, allowing the power of Christ to shine through his life.
1 Corinthians 5
Paul addresses a specific situation in the Corinthian church involving serious sexual sin that is going unchallenged. He warns that allowing open sin within the church can affect the entire community, like yeast spreading through dough. Paul calls the church to address the issue by removing the person who is blatantly sinning, reminding the Corinthians that the church must uphold its purity and integrity in Christ.
1 Corinthians 6
Paul emphasizes the importance of handling disputes among believers within the church instead of in secular courts. He then turns to the issue of sexual immorality, emphasizing that the Corinthians’ bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit. They are no longer their own but belong to God, bought with the price of Christ’s sacrifice. The message is clear: glorify God in your body and flee from anything that defiles it, as our physical bodies are significant in God’s sight.
1 Corinthians 7
In this chapter, Paul provides guidance on marriage, singleness, and relationships. He acknowledges that marriage is a gift and a way to fulfill each other’s needs but also sees singleness as an advantage for focused devotion to God. Paul encourages everyone to live contentedly in their circumstances, whether single or married, emphasizing that our ultimate calling is to serve God faithfully.
Word of the Day: Body
Definition: The physical structure of a person or animal, including bones, flesh, and organs.
What You Do with Your Body Matters
Today’s readings are a powerful reminder that “what you do with your body matters.” Paul calls the Corinthians to a higher standard, challenging them to honor God through their physical lives. He reminds them that their bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, sacred spaces meant to reflect the holiness of God.
In 1 Corinthians 4, Paul describes the life of a servant of Christ, marked by humility and faithfulness. Our bodies are the vessels through which we serve God and each other, and we’re called to use them in ways that reflect the gospel. Then, in 1 Corinthians 5, he stresses the importance of purity within the church community, as our bodies are part of Christ Himself. Sexual sin affects not only us individually but also the entire body of Christ, which we are part of.
In 1 Corinthians 6, Paul speaks directly to the issue of sexual immorality and emphasizes that our bodies are not our own. We’ve been bought with the precious blood of Christ, and we’re called to live in ways that honor Him, including in our relationships and interactions. Finally, 1 Corinthians 7 teaches that our physical relationships—whether in marriage or singleness—are meant to reflect our commitment to Christ. Whether we’re married or single, what we do with our bodies impacts our relationship with God and others.
As followers of Christ, let us remember that our bodies belong to Him. Whether in worship, in our relationships, or in daily decisions, may we seek to glorify God in everything we do.
November 20
1 Corinthians 8-10, 1 Corinthians 11:1
Pursuing What’s Beneficial for All
1 Corinthians 8
Paul addresses the topic of eating food sacrificed to idols, explaining that while idols hold no real power, some believers may still struggle with the association. He emphasizes that knowledge is important, but love should always be our guiding principle. For example, if eating meat sacrificed to idols might cause a weaker believer to stumble, it’s better to abstain. Love for our fellow believers should shape our choices, especially when Scripture’s guidance isn’t a straightforward yes or no.
1 Corinthians 9
Paul shares his approach to Christian ministry by setting aside his rights as an apostle. Although he has the right to receive support from the churches, Paul chooses to work and support himself so he can offer the Gospel freely. Paul compares the Christian life to an athletic race, urging the Corinthians to run to win. “Run with purpose,” he encourages, with the eternal prize of serving Christ in view.
1 Corinthians 10
Paul gives a lesson from Israel’s history, reminding the Corinthians of how some failed to remain faithful in the wilderness. He warns against idolatry, sexual immorality, and grumbling. He brings them back to the question of eating food sacrificed to idols, saying, “Just because something is permitted does not mean it is beneficial.” While the Corinthians wanted to know what they could get away with, Paul redirects them to live fully for God. He encourages them to choose actions that glorify God and build up others, not merely what benefits themselves.
1 Corinthians 11:1
Paul closes his teaching with a powerful exhortation: “Imitate me, just as I imitate Christ.” Paul’s ultimate desire is for every believer to reflect Jesus through their words and actions.
Word of the Day: Beneficial
Definition: Favorable or advantageous; resulting in good.
Choosing What’s Beneficial for All
Today’s reading teaches us to pursue what is beneficial for others, not just ourselves. Paul’s words in 1 Corinthians 10:23 say it clearly: “You say, ‘I am allowed to do anything’—but not everything is good for you. You say, ‘I am allowed to do anything’—but not everything is beneficial.” For believers, this means that even if we have the freedom to act, we must consider how our actions affect others.
1 Corinthians 8 reminds us to choose love over knowledge. Our choices impact others, especially those who are newer or weaker in the faith. Paul encourages us to prioritize what is beneficial by valuing love, humility, and sensitivity toward others’ beliefs.
1 Corinthians 9 highlights the discipline required in Christian life. We’re called to live intentionally, like athletes running for an eternal prize. Developing spiritual discipline is beneficial for our growth and helps us serve others better. Let’s pursue habits that honor Christ and build up our community. Finally, 1 Corinthians 10 and 11 reinforce the importance of setting an example and doing everything to the glory of God. Whether in decisions about lifestyle, relationships, or faith, we should consider what is truly beneficial—not only for ourselves but for all those around us. Let’s imitate Christ’s love and selflessness daily, keeping our eyes on the prize of becoming more like Him.
November 21
1 Corinthians 11:2-34, 1 Corinthians 12, 1 Corinthians 13
Gifts and Love in the Body of Christ
1 Corinthians 11
Paul begins by addressing issues of head coverings in worship. In Roman culture, certain customs distinguished pagan practices, and Paul wanted the Corinthian believers to be set apart. He underscores the complementary roles of men and women, affirming their equal value before God. Paul then turns to a critical issue: the Corinthians’ misuse of the Lord’s Supper. Rather than honoring Christ and fostering unity, their gatherings had become divisive, with some overindulging while others went without. Paul urges the Corinthians to examine themselves, recognizing the Lord’s Supper as a means of unity and remembrance.
1 Corinthians 12
Paul addresses spiritual gifts, noting that each gift is valuable and necessary for the body of Christ. The Corinthians seemed to prioritize specific gifts, particularly speaking in tongues, and felt those without this gift were less significant. Paul uses the analogy of the human body, emphasizing that every part is essential and must work together in harmony. He urges the Corinthians to appreciate the diversity of gifts within the church, each given by God for the purpose of building up His people. Our role, he says, is to exercise these gifts faithfully, serving one another with love and care.
1 Corinthians 13
Known as the “Love Chapter,” Paul elevates love above all spiritual gifts. He emphasizes that love is patient, kind, and selfless, rejoicing in truth and bearing all things. Spiritual gifts are temporary, but love is eternal. Just as the Corinthian believers relied on their mirrors, which only offered a dim reflection, so too is our current understanding of God’s love. In eternity, however, we will see with perfect clarity. Paul concludes by affirming that while faith, hope, and love remain, love is the greatest. It’s the foundation upon which all Christian virtues and actions should be built.
Word of the Day: Gifts
Definition: A gift from God is a power or ability bestowed naturally or supernaturally for the purpose of serving God.
Gifts: Tools for Serving God and His People
Today’s reading takes us into the heart of what it means to live out our faith in the church community. 1 Corinthians 12 reminds us that spiritual gifts are given not to elevate ourselves but to serve others and build up the body of Christ. Tyndale describes a variety of gifts—administration, discernment, hospitality, teaching, healing, and more—all necessary to the church’s health and growth.
1 Corinthians 13 shows us that love is the essential ingredient. The gifts are tools, but love is the goal. John Piper puts it beautifully: “Spiritual gifts are for strengthening others.” These gifts are not meant to be hoarded but shared. When we use our gifts to serve, we display God’s glory and reflect His love.
Finally, Paul’s analogy of the mirror reminds us of our limited understanding this side of eternity. Our gifts and understanding of love are only partial glimpses of the perfect knowledge and love we will experience one day. Let’s embrace our gifts as opportunities to love, serve, and glorify God, knowing that the best is yet to come.
November 22
1 Corinthians 14-15
Standing Strong and Immovable in Faith
1 Corinthians 14
Today, Paul continues to instruct the Corinthians on spiritual gifts, especially emphasizing the power of prophecy. Prophecy, Paul explains, is not only about foretelling future events but about “strengthening, encouraging, and comforting” (1 Cor. 14:3). Paul wants the Corinthians to prioritize gifts that build up the church, like prophecy, over speaking in tongues, which can sometimes be unintelligible without interpretation. By focusing on prophecy, believers can uplift and edify one another, reflecting God’s love.
Paul also addresses the importance of orderly worship. Everything should be done “decently and in order” so the worship service is clear, reverent, and beneficial for all. He concludes by encouraging the congregation to worship in a way that considers the needs of others, building up the church family.
1 Corinthians 15
Paul then transitions to one of the most crucial doctrines in Christianity: the resurrection of Jesus Christ. He affirms that Jesus’ resurrection is a historical fact, witnessed by many, and the foundation of our faith. Without belief in the resurrection, our faith loses its meaning and purpose. Paul insists that Jesus’ victory over death gives us both hope for the future and strength in the present.
He reminds the Corinthians that, just as Christ was raised, we too will be raised and transformed. This promise of resurrection equips us to live immovably, with the assurance that our lives have eternal significance. As Paul writes, “So, my dear brothers and sisters, be strong and immovable. Always work enthusiastically for the Lord, for you know that nothing you do for the Lord is ever useless” (1 Cor. 15:58).
Word of the Day: Immovable
Definition: Incapable of being moved; firmly fixed; steadfast.
Immovable: Stand Firm in Christ’s Victory
Today’s reading emphasizes the importance of standing firm in our faith. In 1 Corinthians 15:58, Paul calls us to be “strong and immovable,” grounding ourselves in the Gospel, the resurrection, and the hope of new life in Christ. This conviction isn’t just an idea—it’s a foundation that transforms how we live. We don’t waver because we know Christ’s victory over sin and death is complete.
The resurrection is the motivation for our unity, our pursuit of purity, and our hope for eternal life. With Christ as our cornerstone, we can live immovably, standing for truth and love. Let’s be immovable in building each other up, in offering encouragement, and in standing for the Gospel that transforms lives. This firm foundation gives us the strength to love, serve, and live with a hope that the world cannot shake.
November 23
1 Corinthians 16, Acts 19:21-41, Acts 20:1-6, Romans 1
Being a Slave to Christ
1 Corinthians 16
As Paul wraps up his first letter to the Corinthians, he addresses several practical matters and leaves them with encouragement. He instructs the Corinthians to take up a weekly collection for the believers in Jerusalem, emphasizing that giving should be intentional and systematic, not haphazard. By doing so, they support their fellow believers and align their worship with acts of generosity. Paul then plans his future visits but, in the meantime, sends Timothy and encourages the church to respect and love him. Paul ends with powerful words: “Be on guard. Stand firm in the faith. Be courageous. Be strong. And do everything with love” (1 Cor. 16:13-14).
Acts 19:21-41; Acts 20:1-6
Next, we see Paul in Ephesus, where a riot erupts due to his preaching. Paul’s message threatens the business of Demetrius, a silversmith who profits from making idols of the goddess Diana. Demetrius stirs up the crowd, fearing that Paul’s message will damage their trade, and a chaotic scene unfolds. However, God uses the city clerk to calm the mob, preserving Paul and the believers in Ephesus. This situation illustrates how the Gospel naturally disrupts idolatry and challenges the status quo.
Paul then heads to Macedonia and Greece, continuing his journey and strengthening the believers. During this time, he writes his letter to the Romans, which brings us to today’s reading from Romans 1.
Romans 1
Romans 1 opens with Paul’s powerful declaration of Jesus as the promised Son of God, confirmed by His resurrection from the dead. Paul explains that the Gospel reveals God’s righteousness and is available to all who believe. This letter to the Romans is different from his other letters—it focuses more on God’s overarching redemption plan rather than specific church issues.
Paul dives deep into humanity’s sinful state and emphasizes that without God, people turn to idolatry, forsaking the Creator for created things. The chapter underscores our universal need for the Gospel and the importance of faith in receiving God’s righteousness. Romans 1 is an invitation to understand the incredible power of the Gospel and a reminder of our dependency on God’s grace.
Word of the Day: Slave
Definition: A person who is bound to another’s authority or ownership; in the spiritual context, it signifies complete dedication and surrender.
A Slave to Christ: Complete Surrender and Purpose
Paul introduces himself in Romans 1 as a “slave of Christ Jesus,” signifying his total devotion to God’s service. The Greek term doulos means someone who is entirely owned by another and serves them for a lifetime. This is not the typical “servant” role; rather, it is a deep, personal surrender to God’s authority and purpose. For Paul, to be a “slave to Christ” means he is entirely committed to spreading the Gospel, regardless of the cost.
When we choose to follow Christ, we are no longer bound by the chains of sin but are joyfully “bound” to serve Jesus. We move from being slaves to sin to becoming willing, devoted slaves to the One who sets us free. This surrender is not about loss but about finding ultimate purpose and freedom in Christ.
November 24
Romans 2-4
Righteousness Through Faith
Romans 2
In Romans 2, Paul addresses the Jews and their reliance on the law for righteousness. He challenges them to understand that God’s judgment is based on truth and is impartial. It’s not simply knowing the law that counts; it’s living it out in obedience. Paul emphasizes that both Jews and Gentiles are accountable to God’s standards, with true obedience being a matter of the heart. He highlights that outward signs, like circumcision, are not enough—God desires a transformed heart, showing that righteousness isn’t about religious identity but genuine faith.
Romans 3
Paul continues by underscoring the universal nature of sin. He emphasizes that everyone—both Jew and Gentile—is under sin’s power, and no one can be justified through their own deeds. Paul draws on Old Testament references to show humanity’s inherent sinfulness, affirming that righteousness comes not through works but through faith in Jesus Christ. This righteousness, he explains, is available to all who believe and is God’s gift, made possible by faith, not by the law.
Romans 4
Paul then uses Abraham as a powerful example of faith-based righteousness. Abraham, the father of both Jews and Gentiles, was counted as righteous because of his faith—long before the law or circumcision was instituted. Paul emphasizes that this same righteousness through faith is accessible to all. As believers, we’re justified not by works but by faith in God, just as Abraham believed God’s promises. His unwavering trust in God’s word was credited to him as righteousness, setting the foundation for the “faith alone” teaching Paul expands upon in Romans.
Word of the Day: Righteousness
Definition: Righteousness is the quality of being right in God’s eyes—encompassing character, conscience, conduct, and command.
Understanding Righteousness Through Faith
Righteousness in human terms is often defined as moral integrity or being justifiable in one’s actions. Yet spiritually, righteousness goes beyond that—it is about being in right standing with God, a gift given to us through faith in Jesus Christ. When we believe in Him, God considers us righteous, not because of our works, but because of His perfect standards fulfilled in Christ.
As we read today, our faith in Christ’s redemptive work makes us righteous before God. It’s like putting on a white garment, clean and spotless, that covers all our imperfections. This purity is a gift that allows us to stand before God, made new and fully accepted in His sight.
