Day 2: Beyond the Pew
Imagine receiving a beautiful gift and then leaving it unopened in your closet. That's exactly what happens when we attend church but never engage in service. Coming to church is wonderful, but it's just the beginning of what God has called us to do.
Every believer has been equipped with at least one spiritual gift—not as a trophy to admire, but as a tool to serve others. These gifts aren't optional accessories to our faith; they're essential equipment for building God's kingdom. Whether you're naturally gifted at teaching, encouraging, helping, or leading, God has specifically designed you to contribute to His work in unique ways.
The beauty of spiritual gifts is that they're perfectly distributed throughout the church body. When everyone uses their gifts, the church functions like a well-coordinated team where each player knows their position and plays it well. But when people bury their gifts or assume someone else will handle the work, the entire body suffers.
Service isn't about age, experience, or having everything figured out. It's about availability and willingness to let God use you where you are, with what you have. From greeting newcomers to teaching children, from organizing events to visiting the sick, there are countless ways to put your gifts into action. The question isn't whether you have gifts to offer—it's whether you're willing to unwrap them and put them to use.
Bible Passage
"Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God's grace in its various forms. If anyone speaks, they should do so as one who speaks the very words of God. If anyone serves, they should do so with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen." - 1 Peter 4:10-11
Reflection Question
What spiritual gifts do you believe God has given you, and what specific steps can you take this week to begin using them to serve others in your church community?
Quote
If we're going to sustain growth, service is mandatory. No one is saved to sit and there is no retirement age in the kingdom of God.
Prayer
Father, thank You for the gifts You've placed within me. Help me identify and develop these gifts, and give me the courage to step out of my comfort zone to serve others. Show me where You want me to contribute to Your work. Amen.