Find Your Place of Service
Romans 12:1-15
Our servant spirit reflects our spiritual maturity. In Romans 12:1-3, Paul echoes Christ’s attitude and action (John 13:1-14; Philippians 2:1-13) when he calls us not to think better of ourselves than we are. The renewal of our minds must transform more than our spiritual intent. We are to present our bodies as living sacrifices, a daily life commitment to serve Christ’s body and our neighbors.
Like 1 Corinthians 12, Paul illustrates that Christians, the body of Christ, only find their purpose when they function within that body (v. 4-6). I like the way The Message translates these verses:
Each part gets its meaning from the body as a whole, not the other way around. The body we’re talking about is Christ’s body of chosen people. Each of us finds our meaning and function as a part of his body. But as a chopped-off finger or cut-off toe, we wouldn’t amount to much, would we?
Our individual gifts fulfill their purpose only when they function with the rest of the body, serving within and outside the body in unity. Paul’s call to use our gifts is not a suggestion; it’s an imperative (v 6). But how do we discover our gifts?
Passion. What are you passionate about? Is there something you do now that if you quit doing it, life would seem less? For what group of people does your heart break when you consider their plight? Ask yourself how you can use your hobby, job skills, interest, or passion to glorify God and serve others.
Strengths. Do you recognize your gifts? Take a spiritual gifts inventory. Pick up a copy of “Living Your Strengths: Discover Your God-Given Talents and Inspire Your Community” by Winseman, et. al. (2004, Gallup Press). It will lead you to take an inventory to identify your talents and use them for growth and service. And talk to trusted friends who are honest, but encouraging. Ask them to point out places where they think you shine.
Activity. Get busy. If you are sitting in the pew, get up and do something. Ask God to reveal to you His purpose as you serve the body of Christ and others. Sometimes we miss God’s leadership because we are not going anywhere!
As you serve the Lord, Christ’s love and the Holy Spirit will light a fire within. Practice joyful hope, patient endurance, and unwavering prayer. And bless others through your service: Christians in need and community bullies, those who rejoice and those who mourn.
Be a blessing – serve!
Scudder– Lessons in the BSL series for the fall quarter are being written by Steve Scudder, director of missions for Savannah River Association since 2006.