Serving the Church

1 Corinthians 12:18-26

When serving the church people often times think too small thereby limiting their own growth and other's around them. They might only see themselves as a choir singer or the Sunday school teacher. When they are not naturally gifted at singing or teaching, often joy fades and they give-up. 

When serving, it's time we stop thinking in terms of a "Sunday only" establishment. The church is not a place or a time, rather it is a body of believers, each one uniquely gifted by God to guide, help, challenge, and support the rest. Most service to the Lord doesn't take place inside the church building. It happens out-side the church walls and in the world, where we do the things that Bible instructs.

Most believers are not in a position to influence a lot of people. When we act or speak, only those closest to us notice, but a chain reaction ripples outward to affect an entire community. Paul's metaphor of body parts working together harmoniously is a helpful description of how one small action can have a widespread impact. Consider the way tensing your big toe keeps your foot stable and thereby steadies your whole body. In the same way, a gentle rebuke, a listening ear, or a loving deed benefits the church by strengthening one brother or sister, who then supports another.

We are on this earth to serve the kingdom of God and His church. And we do that by ministering to each other in small ways that steady the whole body as we give extra support to one member. In talking about such service, be challenged to find a need that God can meet through you.