Living Sacrificially for the Gospel: What Would Jesus Have Me Do?

In recent years, especially around the time of the COVID-19 pandemic, many of us saw a resurgence of the WWJD (What Would Jesus Do?) bracelets. These bracelets served as a constant reminder to consider Jesus’ actions in our daily lives. While the sentiment behind WWJD is commendable, I have always felt that the question should be more personal. Instead of asking, “What would Jesus do?” we should be asking, “What would Jesus have me do?” This shift in perspective transforms our approach to living a life of worship and sacrificial service for God.

At Lakeview Christian Church of Portage Lakes, our mission is to “Be the Change” as Jesus has changed us. We embody this mission through our “Just 3” principles: Study, Share, and Serve. These principles guide us in studying to love and know God, sharing to know and love others, and serving as love in action. Let’s delve deeper into how we can live sacrificially for the gospel and the hope that is in Christ by asking, “What would Jesus have me do?”

Study: To Love and Know God

The first principle of our “Just 3” mission is to study. Studying the Word of God is foundational to understanding His will for our lives. In Romans 12:2, Paul urges us, “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.” By immersing ourselves in Scripture, we allow our minds to be renewed and transformed, enabling us to discern God’s will.

Studying the Bible is not just an intellectual exercise; it is a spiritual discipline that draws us closer to God. In 2 Timothy 3:16-17, Paul writes, “All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.” Through diligent study, we equip ourselves to live out our faith and fulfill God’s purpose for our lives.

At Lakeview Christian Church, we offer various Bible study groups and classes to help our members grow in their understanding of God’s Word. Whether you are a new believer or have been walking with Christ for years, there is always more to learn and discover. By studying together, we encourage one another and build a strong foundation of faith.

Share: To Know and Love Others

The second principle of our “Just 3” mission is to share. Sharing our faith and our lives with others is an essential aspect of living sacrificially for the gospel. In Matthew 28:19-20, Jesus commands us, “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” Sharing the gospel is not just a suggestion; it is a commandment from our Lord.

However, sharing goes beyond evangelism. It also involves building relationships and loving others as Christ loves us. In John 13:34-35, Jesus says, “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.” Our love for others is a powerful testimony of our faith and a reflection of Christ’s love.

At Lakeview Christian Church, we create opportunities for our members to share their faith and build meaningful relationships. From small group gatherings to community outreach events, we strive to foster a sense of belonging and connection. By sharing our lives with others, we demonstrate the love of Christ and invite others to experience His transformative power.

Serve: Love in Action

The third principle of our “Just 3” mission is to serve. Serving others is a tangible expression of our love for God and our commitment to living sacrificially for the gospel. In Matthew 20:28, Jesus declares, “The Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” Jesus set the ultimate example of servanthood, and we are called to follow in His footsteps.

Serving others requires humility and a willingness to put the needs of others before our own. In Philippians 2:3-4, Paul exhorts us, “Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests but also to the interests of others.” By serving others, we demonstrate the selfless love of Christ and fulfill our calling as His disciples.

At Lakeview Christian Church, we provide numerous opportunities for our members to serve both within the church and in the broader community. From volunteering in our children’s ministry to participating in local service projects, there are countless ways to get involved and make a difference. By serving together, we strengthen our bonds as a church family and extend the love of Christ to those in need.

In Galatians 2:20, Paul writes, “I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.” Our lives are no longer our own; they belong to Christ. By living sacrificially, we honor His sacrifice and reflect His love to the world.

Practical Steps to Live Sacrificially

1. Daily Devotionals and Bible Study: Set aside time each day to read and meditate on Scripture. Use devotionals and study guides to deepen your understanding of God’s Word. Join a Bible study group at Lakeview Christian Church to grow in your faith alongside fellow believers.
2. Prayer and Reflection: Spend time in prayer, seeking God’s guidance and wisdom. Reflect on how you can apply His Word to your daily life. Ask God to reveal areas where you can serve and share His love with others.
3. Build Relationships: Invest in meaningful relationships with others. Join a small group or attend church events to connect with fellow believers. Look for opportunities to share your faith and encourage others in their walk with Christ.
4. Serve with Humility: Find ways to serve both within the church and in the community. Volunteer for church ministries, participate in service projects, and look for opportunities to help those in need. Serve with a humble heart, putting the needs of others before your own.
5. Live with Purpose: Remember that your life is a living sacrifice to God. Seek to honor Him in all that you do, whether at work, at home, or in your community. Live with purpose, knowing that your actions reflect the love of Christ.

Conclusion

At Lakeview Christian Church of Portage Lakes, our mission is to “Be the Change” as Jesus has changed us. By embracing the principles of Study, Share, and Serve, we can live sacrificially for the gospel and the hope that is in Christ. As we ask, “What would Jesus have me do?” we commit to a life of worship, service, and love.

Let us be a church that reflects the transformative power of Christ. Let us study to love and know God, share to know and love others, and serve as love in action. Together, we can make a difference in our community and beyond, living out our faith and bringing glory to God.

May we always remember the words of Jesus in Matthew 5:16, “Let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.” As we live sacrificially for the gospel, may our lives be a testament to the love and grace of our Savior, Jesus Christ.