Coffee Cup Memos

There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit distributes them. There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord. There are different kinds of working, but in all of them and in everyone it is the same God at work. Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good. 1 Corinthians 12:7 ESV

The Holy Spirit gives each of us a unique ability intended to benefit others. Have you ever considered that God resides within you, equipping you with a distinctive talent? He designed us to serve and to strengthen the body of Christ, allowing others to witness our good works and give Him praise and glory. By building up the church, we fulfill God’s plans, grow stronger in our faith, encourage others, and strengthen the unity of the brethren. The Lord wants you to be part of his family and benefit from the blessings that come with community.

However, some of us may conceal our abilities due to timidity or fear of complicating our lives. Volunteer work often involves contributing energy and unpaid time, which can lead to hesitation. Yet, we must understand that service opportunities are how our Heavenly Father develops and matures us. You should be intrigued by his invitation to serve, as he may wish to introduce you to others to form a great team for a purpose he has yet to reveal. How can we find the motivation and energy to move forward? We need a change of heart, and we need God’s help to accomplish that. 

The world has effectively captured our attention with its values and interests, promoting social status, entertainment, gadgets, homes, and a lifestyle that fulfills our desires. However, these pursuits can lead to emptiness if God is absent from our hearts and minds. “For what does it profit a man to gain the whole world and forfeit his soul?” (Mark 8:36). 

While chasing desires is easy, doing good for others at our own expense is met with caution and hesitancy. Serving can feel unnatural, which is why we require God’s transformative assistance. We need him to change our focus from ourselves to others, and Jesus exemplified this by healing the blind, restoring hearing to the deaf, curing the sick, and resurrecting the dead. These miracles were written to inspire and encourage us because they demonstrated God’s power, grace, and tremendous love for people. 

And so I ask: Why not seek personal growth in your spiritual journey? Would you like to be more involved in God’s plans and his kingdom work?

Consider taking a risk by saying “yes” to a few service opportunities to see what God does next in your life. You might just be the answer to someone else’s prayer!