Summary: God gets the glory as you serve others, and again when they thank Him for his provision and care through your service. Double win.
2 Corinthians 9:12 says “…this service is not only supplying the needs of the saints but is also overflowing in many thanksgivings to God.”
Our ministry is rendered unto God and not to people. Plainly stated, we serve God not man. But our labors in the Lord DO meet the needs of other human beings. Yet it does not end there. There is an easily overlooked “spiritual bonus,” resulting from our efforts.
Consider this: People, whose needs are met by you, might tell God thanks for what you did. God not only gains glory as (1) you selflessly serve Him, but He receives (2) offerings of thanks from those whose needs were met. Here’s the basic rundown: First, you serve God. Second, your service meets someone’s need. Third, God received heartfelt worship through thanks from the one whose needs were met.
I know this sounds elemental and basic. Yet, it brings me joy to consider that someone might report thanks to our Dad for what you have done. There is an amazing double bonus: (1) God gets your sacrifice and (2) someone’s thanks. Today, render your service not for the applause of men. Rather bless others and they might tell our Father thanks that He helped them. Double win.