1 Peter 4:10, New International Version

“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.”

I have heard different stories of pastors who have been burned out in their serving, and who chose to step down from the ministry. I have also heard comments from different pastors about the challenges they face in taking care of the church because of the lack of volunteers. There is a saying in the church that 10% of the people do 90% of the work. Multitasking is not the same as the hard work mentioned in the book of Proverbs.

A church (a group of people who are called to fellowship together and to love one another) should not function like a restaurant – counting the profit or loss and expanding based on the demand. Those who are attending church services should not be like a full house of customers who are to be served by a few laborers. If that is so then the tithing of the people becomes more like a tip that is dependent upon the satisfaction of the services provided.

“We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your faith; if it is serving, then serve; if it is teaching, then teach; if it is to encourage, then give encouragement; if it is giving, then give generously; if it is to lead, do it diligently; if it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully.” (Romans 12:6-8, NIV)

A church’s body should instead be like a potluck meal. Everyone brings what they can offer, blessing others with what they have been blessed with. We all have something given (gifted) that we can offer (serve). It may not always be bringing a meal (giving), maybe it could also be about cleaning up (serving)?

“Are all apostles? Are all prophets? Are all teachers? Do all work miracles? Do all have gifts of healing? Do all speak in tongues? Do all interpret?” (1 Corinthians 12:29-30, NIV)

The answer to these questions is, we do not! However, we are all given different gifts. Because of that, no one can use the excuse that they have nothing to offer.

Let us be encouraged and “remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.” (2 Corinthians 9:6-8. NIV)

Let us be His good and faithful servants and stewards. Let us always receive the Lord’s blessing in all things and at all times, and having all that we need, abound in every good work.