Motivation

 

Serving God from Gratitude, Not Rewards: A Devotional on Luke 17:9-10

Scripture:  "Does he thank the servant because he did what was commanded? So you also, when you have done all that is commanded you, say, 'We are unworthy servants; we have only done what was our duty.'" – Luke 17:9-10

A Heart Motivated by Gratitude

Modern evangelism often emphasizes the rewards of faith—the promise of heaven, the blessings of following Christ, the fulfillment we find in Him. While these things are undeniably true, Jesus teaches that true discipleship is not about what we gain but about faithfully serving God out of gratitude.

The Hebraic perspective of following God is centered on appreciation for His mercy, love, and grace—not earning something in return. As Jesus illustrated in the parable of the unprofitable servants, obedience is our duty, not a way to accumulate extra favor from God. We serve because He is worthy, not because we expect something in return.

Contemplation: Why Do I Serve God?

Our motives matter. If we follow Jesus for the benefits, we risk being distracted by worldly rewards that seem more pressing in the moment. But if our faith is rooted in gratitude, it remains steadfast, unshaken by external circumstances.

Pause and reflect:

• Is my obedience driven by expectation of blessings, or by deep gratitude?

• Do I feel discouraged when I don’t receive an immediate reward for following God?

• How can I shift my mindset to serve Christ purely out of love and devotion?

True disciples serve with joy, knowing that faithfulness itself is an act of worship.

Personal Reflection: Living as an Unshaken Disciple

We are called to follow Jesus because He is Lord, not because of what we gain. When evangelizing, we must be careful not to present salvation as merely a transaction for heaven—instead, we should highlight the privilege of serving a loving, merciful God who has already given us everything we need.

Consider:

• How can I shift my daily focus from blessings received to blessings already given?

• What steps can I take to cultivate a heart of worship through service?

• How can I evangelize in a way that inspires true commitment rather than temporary interest?

God is faithful whether or not we see immediate benefits. Following Him is the reward in itself.

A Prayer for a Grateful Heart

Lord, I thank You for Your unfailing love, Your mercy, and Your grace. I confess that there are times I seek You for what I might receive rather than simply because You are worthy. Forgive me when my motives have been misplaced.

Teach me to serve You from a heart of gratitude, not expectation. Let my obedience be a reflection of love rather than an attempt to gain favor. You have already given me everything through Jesus Christ—help me to always remember that truth.

May my evangelism point others to Your greatness, not just to the rewards of salvation. May my life be a testimony of faithful service and unshaken devotion.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Final Thought:

Discipleship is about faithfulness, gratitude, and unwavering commitment. Serve Christ today not because of what you might receive, but because of what He has already done.