By Aaron Joseph Hall

Scripture: Luke 17:7-10 (NIV) "Suppose one of you has a servant plowing or looking after the sheep. Will he say to the servant when he comes in from the field, ‘Come along now and sit down to eat’? Won’t he rather say, ‘Prepare my supper, get yourself ready and wait on me while I eat and drink; after that you may eat and drink’? Will he thank the servant because he did what he was told to do? So you also, when you have done everything you were told to do, should say, ‘We are unworthy servants; we have only done our duty.’"

It's easy to desire recognition for our actions and to seek praise for our accomplishments. I know I have found myself seeking such things. As I’ve dug deep into these verses over the last few weeks, I’ve learned that Jesus presents us with a different perspective in Luke 17:7-10.

He illustrates the relationship between a master and a servant, emphasizing the humility and obedience expected of the servant. The part that we often overlook is the obedience part.

Understanding the Master-Servant Relationship

Consider the servant in this passage. His work is essential, plowing the fields, tending to the sheep. Yet, when he returns from his toil, he doesn't expect to be honored or rewarded immediately. Instead, he continues to serve his master, preparing his meal and attending to his needs before tending to his own.

We are not God.

When we think about who God is and what He’s done for us, it’s easy to understand that we have no right to claim anything special or “extra” from the Lord. He’s done more for us than we could ever do for Him—He’s Master, Lord…He’s God!

Embracing Humility in Service

Jesus uses this analogy to teach us about the nature of our relationship with God.

We are the servants, and God is the master. Jesus is Lord, and we are not!

Our purpose is to serve Him wholeheartedly, without expecting accolades or rewards. How often do we serve with the motive of hoping God will bless us as a result of our serving?

Just as the servant fulfills his duty without seeking praise, so too should we fulfill our obligations to God with humility and obedience.

The Importance of Obedience

As Christians, obedience is our duty!

It's a humbling reminder that our service to God isn't about us; it's about Him.

We shouldn't serve Him for the sake of recognition or personal gain but out of love and reverence for who He is. We shouldn’t volunteer at church thinking we are earning anything in the Kingdom of God.

Serving God Wholeheartedly

When we've done all that He's asked of us, we shouldn't boast or seek affirmation. We shouldn’t be like, “God, did you see what I just did? Are you going to bless me now? I’ve been to church every Sunday, I’ve tithed, I’ve given to missions, I’ve brought someone new to church…”

Instead, like the servant, we should acknowledge our unworthiness and simply say, "We are unworthy servants; we have only done our duty."

Again, obedience is our simple duty!

Motives in Service: Seeking Recognition vs. Pleasing God

This passage challenges us to examine our motives and attitudes towards service. It pulls back the curtain and exposes our motive—why do we do what we do?

1. Are we serving God with a humble heart, seeking only to please Him?

2. Are we seeking recognition and validation from others?

3. Are serving God only so He will bless us and fulfill our dreams and plans?

These are thought-provoking questions meant to pray about, journal on, and allow the Holy Spirit to reveal the answers as it relates to you.

The Privilege of Serving Jesus: He is our Reward

Let's strive to emulate the humility of the servant in this passage, faithfully serving God without expecting anything in return. After all, it's a privilege to serve the Master of the universe, and our greatest reward is Jesus Himself! And there is no greater reward than Him!

Aaron Joseph Hall is a devoted husband and father of four. He serves as the Digital Discipleship & Communications Pastor at More 2 Life Ministries. Passionate about writing, Aaron shares insights and inspiration on his blog: AaronJosephHall.com. You can follow him on Facebook, TikTok, Instagram, and X.