Everyday Ordinary Story: Serving God & Others

everyday ordinary story marriage serving god serving others Jul 28, 2022

by Pamela Henkelman

My guy gathers the oatmeal, wheat flour, and buttermilk as he prepares our favorite Buttermilk Oatmeal Pancakes topped with blueberries. It’s our Friday morning routine as he moves with precision in the kitchen. He’s tidy and meticulous with each step. He cleans each dirty dish, and wipes the counter as he goes. It’s the complete opposite of how I cook. I prefer messy, unmeasured, and free!

I lounge on the sofa as he brings me another cup of Caribou coffee. I grin and smile as he bends down for a kiss. “You’re my favorite,” he whispers. The tension eases from my shoulders as I relax into our quiet Friday morning routine.

He doesn’t have to make me breakfast, but he wants to. About nine years ago he felt impressed by the Holy Spirit to serve me and this is one way he does it best. I spent the first 25 years of our marriage serving him and our five kids and I feel completely loved when he dotes on me like this.

It’s not fancy or fussy. The simple act of serving fills me. It’s the intentionality behind it that gets me. He thinks of me and as he moves beyond himself and serves me. I want to do the same for him.

Can you tell acts of service are my love language? Some women prefer roses or expensive gifts. Others like meaningful experiences or words of affirmation. I prefer my husband to help around the house. When he unloads the dishwasher, puts a load of laundry away, takes out the garbage, or makes me breakfast without my prompt, I swoon over these simple acts of service.

I feel loved and seen. This in turn helps me experience God’s love.

When was the last time you experienced the presence of God as you served your spouse in everyday ordinary moments?

We need to look to Jesus as our example of servanthood. Jesus walked the earth and laid down His life to serve us all. He stopped, stooped and noticed people. He set aside His agenda and allowed beautiful interruptions where He doted on people.

Here’s a beautiful example:
Jesus, knowing that the Father had given all things into his hands, and that he had come from God and was going back to God, rose from supper. He laid aside his outer garments, and taking a towel, tied it around his waist. Then he poured water into a basin and began to wash the disciples' feet and to wipe them with the towel that was wrapped around him. John 13:3-5 ESV

Jesus continually put others' needs before His own. He led with love, and wherever He served, the recipient received a glimpse of God. He modeled servanthood, so we could put it into practice. He glorified God each time He humbled Himself before man.

We have the same opportunity in our marriages. God is magnified in the quiet ways we help our spouse with a grateful heart. Attitude is everything. When we help our spouse joyfully we are inviting the Spirit’s activity into our day. As we lay aside our own agenda for the greater good of our spouse, God is magnified. Peace reigns and our bond in marriage will grow stronger.

Next time you do something kind for your spouse, remember, God is present in this simple moment. Sense His nearness and be glad.

Let’s pray.
Dear Papa, thank you for the privilege to serve my spouse. Give me opportunities to help them in our everyday ordinary ways. Help me pay attention to their needs and meet them in a way that feels authentic and purposeful. May You be glorified in the little ways I serve my spouse and may they feel loved because of it. Amen.

About Pamela

Pamela Henkelman is an enthusiastic encourager with a passion to speak, write, and coach. She believes all of life flows from our loving union with God. She helps Christian moms navigate their changing roles with their adult children through intimacy with God.

Pamela lives in the midwest and is married to her Pastor. They have five adult children and two grandsons and celebrated 34 years of marriage in October.

For fun, Pamela enjoys deep conversations over coffee, laughter, and cooking delicious food.