Using Our Gifts to Serve Others
"But in fact God has placed the parts in the body, every one of them, just as he wanted them to be. If they were all one part, where would the body be? As it is, there are many parts, but one body."1
Many of us have heard sermons about serving as members of the Body of Christ. Still, when it comes to using our gifts and talents, there are Christians who don't feel able to serve. They compare themselves to a choir singer or a Sunday school teacher. And if they don't feel fit for such roles, they become discouraged and choose to just be bystanders.
It's time to start thinking about this service in a different way. The church is not a place or a time, it is a body of believers who are each gifted in a special way by God to guide, help, exhort, and support the rest.
Paul's metaphor of body parts working together in harmony is a useful description of how an action can have a widespread impact. Consider how tightening your big toe stabilizes your entire body. A humble part has a very important role to play, doesn't it? In the same way, a kind reply, a listening ear, or a loving action can strengthen a brother or sister to be better able to support another member. That way the whole church benefits.
Our purpose in this world is to serve God and His Kingdom. We do this by ministering to one another in ways that build up and beautify the whole church.
Suggested Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for giving me gifts and talents to serve Your church. I ask you to help me identify them and give me the wisdom to know how to use them. Let everything I do be for your honor and your glory. I pray in Jesus' name, Amen.
1. 1 Corinthians 12:18-20 (NIV).
Today's Encounter was written by: Rosina N.
All articles on this website are written by
Richard (Dick) Innes unless otherwise stated.