25 Bible Verses About Serving Others & 5 Ways To Help Those In Need
Through His life, teachings, and ultimate sacrifice, Jesus shows us what it means to serve others. As Christians, we aspire to extend His love and compassion to those around us, especially those in need.
In this post, we'll explore what the Bible says about serving others and provide practical ways to apply these teachings to your life.
For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.
— Mark 10:45, ESV
We who are strong ought to bear with the failings of the weak and not to please ourselves.
— Romans 15:1, NIV
Carry each other's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.
— Galatians 6:2, NIV
Anyone who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with their own hands, that they may have something to share with those in need.
— Ephesians 4:28, NIV
Sitting down, Jesus called the Twelve and said, "Anyone who wants to be first must be the very last, and the servant of all.
— Mark 9:35, NIV
Why We Serve Others
You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love.
— Galatians 5:13, NIV
In everything I did, I showed you that by this kind of hard work we must help the weak, remembering the words the Lord Jesus himself said: "It is more blessed to give than to receive."
— Acts 20:35, NIV
Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.
— Galatians 6:9, NIV
The Scriptures remind us that serving others is a priority. We serve others to honor the love we've received from Christ. God is calling us to serve others. When we help those in need, we build a world in line with God's standards of goodness and further His Kingdom.
How to Serve Others: 5 Practical Ways
Pursue a High-Impact Career
Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.
— Colossians 3:23, NIV
For we are God's handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.
— Ephesians 2:10, NIV
One of the most effective ways to serve others is to find a career that maximizes your impact on the world.
At Christians for Impact (CFI), we guide Christians to pursue high-impact careers that answer God’s calling. Whether in international development, missions, or addressing other world problems, your career can be a powerful tool for serving others.
Read more on this topic: How Christians can find a career path aligned with God's plan.
2. Apply Your Talents in Your Career
Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is in your power to act.
— Proverbs 3:27, NIV
Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God's grace in its various forms.
— 1 Peter 4:10, NIV
God has equipped each of us with unique talents and skills. He wants us to use these gifts and talents to serve.
Consider how your career path can help those in need—whether through your current role, a career change, or even volunteering.
Learn more: Using Your God-Given Gifts & Talents to Help Others
3. Be Generous
Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.
— 2 Corinthians 9:7, NIV
The King will reply, 'Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.'
— Matthew 25:40, NIV
And if you spend yourselves on behalf of the hungry and satisfy the needs of the oppressed, then your light will rise in the darkness, and your night will become like the noonday.
— Isaiah 58:10, NIV
I command you, 'You shall open wide your hand to your brother, to the needy and to the poor, in your land.'
— Deuteronomy 15:11b, ESV
Give to the one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you.
— Matthew 5:42, NIV
"What should we do then?" the crowd asked. John answered, "Anyone who has two shirts should share with the one who has none, and anyone who has food should do the same."
— Luke 3:10–11, NIV
"Sell your possessions and give to the poor. Provide purses for yourselves that will not wear out, a treasure in heaven that will never fail, where no thief comes near and no moth destroys.
For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also."
— Luke 12:33-34
Jesus encourages us not to pursue a path of earthly possessions—they are temporary and can be destroyed. Instead, Jesus calls us to be generous and put uplifting God's Kingdom first.
With over 600 million people living on less than $2.15 per day, Jesus' call is urgent. Christians in developed countries have a unique opportunity to serve the global poor.
Effective giving can significantly impact those living in extreme poverty.
Using your money to help those in need is a direct way to align your intention with God. We recommend focusing on high-impact charities that make a tangible difference in the lives of people experiencing poverty. Learn more about effective giving and how you can make an impact on global poverty.
4. Be Part of a Community that Encourages
Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.
— 1 Thessalonians 5:11, NIV
Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.
— Philippians 2:4, ESV
Serving others isn't a solo mission; it's about being part of a community that uplifts and supports each other. At Christians for Impact, we believe in the power of community to elevate God's Kingdom. Feel welcome to explore the Christians For Impact community, where we can support each other in serving.
5. Pray for Others
And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord's people.
— Ephesians 6:18, NIV
I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people - for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.
— 1 Timothy 2:1-2, NIV
Prayer is often an underestimated way to serve others. Your prayers can bring comfort, healing, and hope to those who need faith. Consider setting aside time each day to pray for those experiencing life challenges and for God's guidance in your own journey of service.
A Life of Service Reflects Christ
Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.
— 1 John 3:18, NIV
Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.
— Philippians 2:4, ESV
My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one's life for one's friends.
— John 15:12–13, NIV
Serving others is about more than fulfilling a duty—it reflects Christ's love and compassion.
We are called to love and serve, just as Jesus did.
Here at Christians For Impact, we specialize in ensuring your work aligns with God's purpose for your life and makes a positive impact. If you're looking to pursue a high-impact career that is good for the world and glorifies God, feel welcome to book a free consultation with us.
