Devotions from Judy’s heart
As followers of Christ, do we joyfully serve others or do we struggle with selfishness? There may be times we are outwardly doing an unselfish act but inwardly our heart is grumbling?  In fact, we may be saying, “Why now? Really! I already have a busy day and now this!” Only the Lord can give us compassionate hearts that reach out to others, as we lay aside what we want and surrender to what He has for us. It is good to give the Lord our day as we waken, and put ourselves into His hands. I find that as I am writing this I am convicted that I often run ahead of Him rather than waiting for His plan. That can cause unneeded stress. But if we wait, He promises to go before us and will prepare the way for whatever is on His agenda. We may be in for surprises. Amy Pye writes how she asked a visitor at their home if he had a few things he’d like for her to wash. His daughter heard and brought loads of wash for her to do; Amy had to put love into action as she hung all those clothes outside on the line and asked God to help her do it joyfully. I think we have all had times when we volunteered for something and it turns out to be a much bigger undertaking. We also need His grace to persevere with a right attitude and take it to completion. But whatever we do, we are really doing it for the Lord. We often need reminders as Jesus said in Matt. 25:40 (God’s Word), “I can guarantee this truth: Whatever you did for one of my brothers or sisters, no matter how unimportant they seemed, you did for me.” He has given us the power of the Holy Spirit so that we can love others with His love and unselfishly serve them giving all the glory to Him.  
Challenge for today: Listen carefully as the Lord may direct you to someone who needs your help today.
Blessings on your day and prayers and love, Judy