Service > Status
Romans 15:1–3 (MSG): “Those of us who are strong and able in the faith need to step in and lend a hand to those who falter, and not just do what is most convenient for us. Strength is for service, not status. Each one of us needs to look after the good of the people around us, asking ourselves, ‘How can I help?’ That’s exactly what Jesus did.”
We live in a culture that often celebrates strength in terms of independence, influence, or image. But Romans 15 flips the script: Strength is for service, not status. It’s not given so we can look impressive—but so we can be useful.
God doesn’t call us to flex our faith for attention. He calls us to step in, stay close, and lift others—especially when it’s not convenient.
I remember a time when a friend of mine was going through a rough patch. I could tell they weren’t themselves—quiet, withdrawn, carrying something heavy. I had a packed schedule that week and every reason to keep it moving. But I felt a tug to pause and ask, “Hey, how are you really doing?”
That one conversation opened the door for healing, encouragement, and connection. It reminded me that showing up doesn’t have to be complicated—it just has to be intentional.
Sometimes the greatest ministry is simply noticing, being willing to step in, and doing the unglamorous thing: helping out.
Living like Jesus means we don’t avoid people’s mess—we step into it with love. Romans 15 isn’t just a nice thought—it’s a practical call to action. So what does that look like in everyday life?
Here are 5 ways you can live it out, each starting with the letter S to help you remember:
Step In
Don’t keep your distance—move toward the need. Whether it’s a hurting friend, a team that’s short-staffed, or someone sitting alone, real strength gets close.Serve Others
Use what you’ve got—your experience, time, wisdom, or faith—to carry someone else. Ask, “How can I help?” and mean it.Stay Humble
You’re not better because you’re stronger. Jesus had all the status in the world—and still chose to serve. Follow His lead.Stand Together
Unity doesn’t mean we always agree—it means we keep showing up for one another in love. Stay connected, even in differences.Shift the Spotlight
Make it about Jesus, not you. Strength isn’t for showing off—it’s for showing others who He is.
I’m reminded on the quote that says: “You can impress people from a distance, but you only impact them up close.” - John Maxwell. That’s what Romans 15 is all about—not using your strength to stay admired from afar, but choosing to get close, get involved, and serve like Jesus did.
When we follow Jesus’ example and choose service over status, we reflect His heart to the world.
Let’s ask Him to help us live that out, starting with the people right around us.
Jesus, thank You for not avoiding my mess but stepping into it. Help me do the same for others. Give me eyes to see the people around me, the heart to care, and the humility to serve. Use my strength for Your glory—not for my status. Amen.
Make it Personal:
Who around you might be struggling or carrying something heavy—and how can you step in to help?
Are you using your strength to serve others or to stand out?
What would it look like this week to get involved like Jesus instead of avoiding the inconvenience?
Comment below: Who is God putting on your heart to serve this week?
Share this with someone who lives out their strength by serving others—you might just encourage them to keep going.
