Be The Church!

“Serving in the church? But I’m so busy! And I’m not good at socializing or memorizing Bible verses. I’ll do it when I’m older.â€

Sometimes people think that, to serve in the church, you have to be a theology expert or an extrovert who loves to talk to strangers. We can forget that God created us to serve each other, and that, in Christ, we are the church—the Body of Christ. Service in the church is sharing Jesus’ love by encouraging and loving our siblings in Christ, as well as reaching out to those who don’t know Jesus. Therefore, all Christians, regardless of age or experience, are called to serve the church because they make up the church (Ephesians 1:22-23; 4:14-16).

The good news? No matter what talents and skills you have, there is a place for you to serve. If you love to bake, volunteer to bring in a treat for a celebration or for a family going through a hard time. If you love music, join the church worship team or start a youth worship band. If you love graphic design, offer to create posters and bulletins. If you’re a photographer, take pictures for church events. If you love writing, write encouraging notes or cards for your church family. If you like to work with kids, volunteer to serve in the kids’ program.

Pray about how God would have you use your talents and skills—as well as your spiritual gifts, which are special abilities the Holy Spirit gives to Christians to serve the church (1 Corinthians 14:12). Then, talk with your pastor, elders, deacons, or other people in leadership at your church about how you can plug in.

In Christ, we are called to be the church. In Him, we have a family and a kingdom that can never be shaken (Hebrews 12:28). • Abby Ciona

• If you are a Christian, what spiritual gifts do you have? To dig into this subject, start with Romans 12:1-8, 1 Corinthians 12–14, and Ephesians 4:1-16.

• Who are trusted Christians in your life—such as pastors, youth leaders, or counselors—who can help you discern what gifts the Holy Spirit has given you?

• What are some ways you can begin, or continue, to serve in the church?

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)

Read Verses:

Romans 12:3-8; Galatians 6:9-10