First, love.

“I know your works, your labor, your patience, and that you cannot bear those who are evil. And you have tested those who say they are apostles and are not, and have found them liars; and you have persevered and have patience, and have labored for My name’s sake and have not become weary.  Nevertheless I have this against you, that you have left your first love."
~Revelation 2:2-4

Recently, I was talking with my friend about the story of Mary and Martha.  Jesus honored Mary's worship but plainly stated his opposition to Martha's busyness.  Sadly, Christians seem to more often fall into the Martha category than that of Mary.  There is ministry to be done! People to save! Another commitment to make!  This is quite true.  But is that how God desires us to live, in a rush of constant service and guilt if we are not doing something for the kingdom?  Even if accomplishing the right goals, service can become a distraction from God. 

As a person involved in ministry and service multiple times a week, I have to check my heart.  I am beginning to see that I am in danger of losing my first love under the disguise of serving.  God's command is not our "busyness" but our love and our obedience.  I think if we can hold onto our first love and truly worship God, then that will come out of our lives in every way and ultimately lead to the right kind of service.