Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms. If anyone speaks, they should do so as one who speaks the very words of God. If anyone serves, they should do so with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen.
1 Peter 4:10-11

---

Did you follow the 2024 Summer Olympics this year? It’s amazing to see athletes from around the globe compete at the highest levels. It’s fun to witness world records get set or broken, and to see who wins gold. Different from college and professional events, watching the Olympics strikes a deeper chord with me.

What stands out to me is that most Olympians compete for something bigger than their own fame. Yes, they are athletically the best of the best. And yes, their name will go down in history. But rather than keep the spotlight on themselves, they redirect it toward the country they represent or a story that compels them. Win or lose, the tears streaming down their faces often tell a tale of sacrifice for something or someone beyond their own ambitions. When a global athlete redirects the spotlight, I’m drawn to them and what they represent. Maybe you are too.

When it comes to serving God, you and I are invited to be like selfless, sacrificial Olympic athletes. 1 Peter 4:10-11 is clear that the Lord assigns us as His delegates, and we represent Him through what we say and do. God’s Spirit is where we get our gifting from, and He’s the One we need to redirect the spotlight toward. Our acts of service aren’t about us; they’re intended to bless people and honor God above all.

Today, you and I will have multiple opportunities to redirect the spotlight. Someone might thank you for lending a hand or a listening ear. But you don’t need to soak up the attention. Instead, find a way to point praise back to Christ as the driving reason you prefer to serve not be served.

Next Steps

If this weekend’s message moved you to explore serving, visit willowcreek.org/serve and sign up for a volunteer opportunity that fits your gifting.

Who is someone you’ll encounter today that needs you to serve them? When they thank you, what can you say to redirect the spotlight on God as the reason you care and the One worthy of praise?