Let me encourage you to evaluate the level at which you are involved in serving the Lord at church. In no particular order, here are some important things to consider:
1. Serving is the purpose of our salvation. Sometimes when we emphasise that salvation is not by works, we fail to fully appreciate that we have been saved for good works (Ephesians 2:10). To be stationary or sedentary is to neglect God’s purpose for your life.
2. I have been gifted to serve. Several Bible passages help us to understand the concept of spiritual gifts. Among them are Romans 12, 1 Corinthians 12, and Ephesians 4. In these chapters we learn how God graciously gives to each believer their own distinct ministry gift!
3. Serving demonstrates the reality of my faith. James teaches us that faith without works is dead.
4. The workers are few. Jesus said: “Pray for more workers for the harvest!” If you are not already serving, somebody somewhere is praying for you to get involved. The harvest is ready.
5. Do it for the kids (they’re watching). When Jesus selected His apostles, He chose them to be “with Him.” Ministry is more often “caught” than “taught.” What is the next generation learning about positive, heart- motivated ministry by watching us?
6. The commission is great. “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” Matthew 28:18
7. Ministry involvement enhances biblical understanding. At the wedding in Cana, the servants understood Jesus and His ways better than anyone else in the room: “the master of the banquet tasted the water that had been turned into wine. He did not realize where it had come from, though the servants who had drawn the water knew” (John 2:9).
8. Doing anonymous or little things for the Lord is our spiritual act of worship. In view of God's mercy, mundane duties became majestic acts of service. Serving becomes its own reward.
9. You will forge long-lasting and valuable friendships. One of the major fringe benefits of serving the church is the building of genuine friendships. Those to whom we feel the closest in life are typically those with whom we work. Checkout Romans 16, where Paul takes time to assign value to his coworkers in ministry. Read it. Sense his heart. Ministry partners are the best lifetime friends and great sources of encouragement.
10. We will stand before the Lord. He loves me. He died for me. He has given me purpose. Only what’s done for Him matters. I will meet Him face to face. Someday. Maybe today. Involvement in ministry is living for Jesus, being like Jesus, and being with Jesus. If that doesn’t inceltivize us, I don’t know what will!
