To equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up
Ephesians 4: 12
As a minister, I regularly encourage believers to identify ministry roles that they can take up so as to serve and glorify God with their gifts alongside their jobs, businesses, studies, etc.
The importance of applying our skills and time in service to God through our local church or other platforms cannot be overstated. We have all benefitted from the service that other believers have rendered to God as Sunday school teachers, pastors, ushers, singers, instrumentalists, and so on.
However, a common concern that people have when considering serving in church is that they are ‘not spiritual enough’ to play a ministry role. These feelings might come from observing others who have been in church for longer and so seem a lot more spiritually grounded, or even from honest self-assessment.
Today, many Christians serving God in different capacities can relate to this idea of at first not feeling spiritually qualified to take on certain responsibilities. And many can also testify that when God gives us a task, He helps us through our limitations, and that we are all on a continuing journey of growth in Christ.
For instance, there are Ushers, Lighthouse leaders, Prayer Leaders, and other ministers in ILCC who would likely say that at the start of their journey into ministry they did not feel spiritually up to the task. But then, through training and discipleship under other ministers, they have become more and more adept at carrying out their responsibilities. Some might even say that they can’t recognize themselves because of how much they have grown spiritually. Isn’t that an amazing testimony?
Typically, personal growth isn’t as obvious or discernible as say the physical growth we experienced when we were children. And it’s amazing what we can become through diligent actions, and by the grace of God.
In order to grow as Christians, we need to stay nourished by abiding in Christ through personal fellowship, church fellowship, training, and discipleship. Otherwise, the growth we pursue will be hindered.
It all starts with obedience to God’s leading to apply ourselves in service to Him and faith that He will give us the help we need.
I pray that God guides you into His purpose for your life and equips you to serve Him in excellence.
BY: Pastor Wale Afelumo