The Unexpected Secret to a Fuller, More Joyful Life

But he that is greatest among you shall be your servant.

— Matthew 23:11

Hello, dear friend. I want to let you in on something I discovered during one of the loneliest seasons of my singleness. I had been so focused on what I didn’t have — a relationship, a family, the life I’d imagined by now — that I had turned inward and didn’t even realize it. Then a friend invited me to help serve at a local food pantry one Saturday morning. I almost said no. But I went. And somewhere between handing out groceries and hearing a woman’s story, something shifted in my heart. I drove home more joyful than I’d been in months.

Jesus’ words in Matthew 23:11 seem counterintuitive to our culture: greatness is found in servanthood. Yet this was not a suggestion — it was a kingdom principle. The greatest life is not the one most served, but the one that serves most. And as single women, we are uniquely positioned to pour into others in ways that are sometimes harder when life gets busier.

Service Is an Act of Worship

When Jesus washed His disciples’ feet, He wasn’t just modeling humility — He was redefining what greatness looks like in the kingdom of God. Service is not a lesser calling; it is the highest one. Every act of kindness, every meal shared, every hour given to someone in need is an act of worship that echoes into eternity.

The Apostle Paul put it beautifully: “And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men” (Colossians 3:23). Whether you’re serving in your church, your neighborhood, or your workplace, when you serve as unto the Lord, the mundane becomes sacred. And something beautiful happens — His love begins to flow through you to the people around you in a way that transforms both them and you.

Practical Ways to Serve Right Where You Are

You don’t need a big platform or a special title to live a life of service. Here are some ways to start right where you are:

• Serve in your local church: Whether it’s the welcome team, children’s ministry, or setup crew, your church needs you. Showing up consistently is one of the most powerful forms of service.

• Check on someone this week: Think of one person who might be lonely, grieving, or struggling. Send a text, drop off a meal, or simply sit with them. Small acts of presence carry enormous weight.

• Use your gifts intentionally: What are you naturally good at? Writing, organizing, cooking, listening? There is someone in your life who needs exactly what you have to offer. Ask God to show you who.

True service flows from a heart that has been filled by God. When you spend time finding joy in His presence and allow Him to fill you up, you naturally have more to pour out. Serving others is not a burden — it’s an overflow of a life lived close to Jesus.

Reflection Prompt

Ask God today: “Who do You want me to serve this week?” Then listen and act. Write in your journal about one specific person or place where you can show up and pour out. Don’t wait for the perfect moment — greatness in the kingdom begins with a single, willing step.