Devotion Title: A Spiritual Heart in a Menial Task
Scripture
“But he that is spiritual judgeth all things, yet he himself is judged of no man.
For who hath known the mind of the Lord, that he may instruct him?
But we have the mind of Christ.” — 1 Corinthians 2:15–16 (KJV)“And the twelve summoned the body of the disciples and said,
'It is not right that we should give up preaching the word of God to serve tables.'” — Acts 6:2 (RSV)“And what they said pleased the whole multitude, and they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit...” — Acts 6:5 (RSV)
Personal Reflection
I remember one Sunday afternoon after church, we were short on volunteers to clean up the fellowship hall. Tables needed folding, trash needed hauling, and someone had to mop a spilled drink near the children’s area. I watched as some passed by pretending not to see it—some even offering excuses. But then an elderly woman, quiet and faithful, picked up the mop and smiled. I saw Jesus in her that day.
The truth is, our heart is often revealed not in moments of recognition, but in moments of lowliness. Do I feel irritated when asked to do something beneath my status? Do I quietly hope for applause when I serve? If so, then I’m not walking in the fullness of the Spirit. But Stephen—he was full of the Holy Spirit, and he served tables. He did not protest. He did not grumble. He simply served because his heart was full of Christ.
Contemplation
Paul describes the spiritual person as one who has the “mind of Christ.” What does that mean practically? It means we see the world through Christ’s eyes. We embrace the towel and basin, just as Jesus did when He washed the disciples' feet. There was no role too low for the Savior—and there must be none too low for His followers.
The spiritual person isn’t driven by position, praise, or prestige. Instead, they are led by the Holy Spirit, who shapes within them the character of Christ. This person does not ask, “What do I get from this?” but rather, “How can I glorify God in this?”
The carnal person seeks significance; the spiritual person seeks obedience. And here’s the mystery: the spiritual person finds their true significance in their obedience.
Prayer
Father, humble my heart.
Teach me what it means to have the mind of Christ. Forgive me for the times I have grumbled at small tasks, turned away from humble duties, or silently hoped to be seen.
Fill me with Your Spirit like Stephen—so full of You that even serving tables becomes sacred. Let me be content to serve, knowing that I am not working for man, but for You.
Strip away the pride and clothe me in the towel of Christ’s servanthood. May I reflect His heart in everything—whether I’m preaching, cleaning, helping, or simply being present with someone in need.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Today’s Challenge
Ask yourself honestly: How do I respond when asked to do something simple, unnoticed, or “beneath me”?
If you are quick to bristle, pause and ask the Holy Spirit to reveal any pride that needs to be crucified.
Look for one menial task today—something that no one else wants to do—and do it with joy.
Don’t announce it. Don’t seek credit. Just serve like Stephen.
As you serve, whisper this prayer: “Lord, I offer this small thing for Your great glory.”
Remember: The truly spiritual person doesn’t rise above the menial; they descendinto it with grace.
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