Gifted to Serve
By Joe Haverlock
As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace: whoever speaks, as one who speaks oracles of God; whoever serves, as one who serves by the strength that God supplies—in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. To him belong glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen. —1 Peter 4:10–11
Meet my friend Dean. Dean volunteered as an usher and greeter at the church where I used to serve in Michigan. You couldn’t help but feel God’s love when Dean said hello with his warm, joy-filled smile. Though he’s experienced two brain surgeries and increasing physical challenges in his past that hindered him from many everyday activities, he never missed an opportunity to share an encouraging scripture or call someone during the week to pray for their specific need. He was unashamed to share Jesus with everyone he met. One day over lunch, he told me that he doesn’t know how long he has to live, so he doesn’t want to waste an opportunity to share Jesus with anyone he meets. Despite his physical challenges, Dean loves to serve the Lord.
Have you ever considered how God might want to use you to serve him? The good news is that God has gifted each believer to serve him in a unique way to build up the body of Christ and bring glory to God. 1 Peter 4:10 says, “As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace.” That’s right! You have a God-given gift to be used in the service of the King! You only need to be a good steward. You were given a gift for a bigger purpose. You were gifted to serve others. Maybe you’re not sure what your gift is, but one thing is certain–you have at least one. Even better, you get to experience God’s grace when you use it. How do you know what this gift is? You don’t know until you try. Do you enjoy teaching children or youth, playing an instrument, welcoming someone new, or helping others in need with projects? Many times, I have seen people discover their gifts simply by asking where help is needed around the church. Maybe it’s as simple as asking a Christian friend over a cup of coffee how they think God has gifted you. It’s amazing how others can spot our gifts well before we can. As we look toward launching a new congregation in early February, we’ll be sending others out to serve the east side of our city. So, it’s a great season of opportunity to jump in here at Killearn.
It can be really easy to find reasons for not serving, like busyness, work, or other hobbies. Dean had many reasons why it would have been much easier to just be content to come, listen, and leave each week. Instead, he wanted to experience the joy of God working through him to show hospitality and extend a warm welcome to members and newcomers alike. I love how verse 11 reminds us that when we serve, we do it “as one who serves by the strength God supplies—in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. To him belong glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen.” God will supply the strength, so don’t miss out on being a conduit of God’s grace.
You were gifted to serve the body of Christ by the divine strength which He supplies in order to bring glory to God. This is not only an act of service; it is an act of worship.
Would you like to know about the many opportunities to serve here at Four Oaks Community Church? Click here to find out how you can get in the game!