“For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.”
— Ephesians 2:10
God didn’t create us to live self-centered lives. Instead, He designed us for a purpose—one filled with good works that reflect His love to the world. Ephesians 2:10 reminds us that we are His workmanship, intentionally crafted by His hand, and uniquely equipped to serve others in ways that bring Him glory. But service isn’t just about helping—it’s about understanding. It’s about stepping into someone else’s shoes and letting empathy guide our actions.
Empathy Through Service
Service is one of the most powerful ways to practice empathy. When we serve, we intentionally focus on someone else’s needs, putting their well-being ahead of our own. It’s not about pity or obligation; it’s about love in action. Jesus modeled this perfectly when He washed His disciples’ feet in John 13:1-17. As the Son of God, He didn’t have to stoop to such a lowly task, but He chose to serve because His love was greater than His status.
Why Service Deepens Empathy
When we serve, we see the world from a different perspective. We understand struggles we’ve never faced, celebrate victories we’ve never experienced, and grow in compassion for those we might otherwise overlook. Service transforms us because it aligns our hearts with God’s.
How to Serve With Empathy
- Start Small
Empathy grows in the small, intentional acts of service. A kind word, a warm meal, or even a listening ear can make a significant difference in someone’s life. - Engage Fully
Don’t just serve from a distance. Get to know the people you’re serving. Ask about their stories, their hopes, and their challenges. - Serve Without Expectation
True empathy expects nothing in return. Serve because God calls you to, not because you’re hoping for recognition or a reward. - Pray for Opportunities
Ask God to open your eyes to ways you can serve others. Sometimes the greatest opportunities for empathy come in the moments we least expect. - Reflect Christ’s Love
Remember that when you serve others, you’re serving Christ (Matthew 25:40). Let His love shine through your actions.
Reflection
Who has God placed in your life that you can serve today? How might an intentional act of service deepen your empathy for them?
Prayer
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for creating us with purpose and for equipping us to serve. Teach us to see service not as a chore, but as an opportunity to reflect Your love and build empathy. Open our eyes to the needs around us and give us the courage to step into them. Let our actions be guided by compassion, our hearts filled with Your grace, and our hands ready to work for Your glory. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Service isn’t just something we do—it’s who we are. As God’s workmanship, we are made for good works that encourage empathy and change lives, including our own. Let’s live like we’re made for more.
God bless, and let’s keep Him first in everything we do.
For more uplifting devotionals and prayers, visit God First Life.
Dan Greer
