Too often Christians only look to be “involved.” Christians need to carefully consider how they can most effectively contribute to Christ’s soul saving and building mission. Let’s briefly reflect on the following to help in this process.
WE ARE ALL UNIQUE
Every member of the body of Christ is so unique, thus Paul likens Christians to different parts of the body (see 1 Cor. 12). As the eye has an extremely important and unique function, so does the ear. No two Christians have exactly the same abilities and opportunities in God’s kingdom. In order for the body to function at its full capacity, each Christian must make their unique contribution (see Ephesians 4:16).
EXPERIENCES AND TALENTS
Life has brought all of us differing experiences and opportunities, many of which prepare us for important service in God’s kingdom. It may be surprising how many skills of the workplace are of great value in the work of Christ. Christians should carefully consider how their God-given talents, as well as their God-permitted experiences, can be useful in the work of Christ.
PLUG IN
Many times the local church has programs in place designed to help carry out the Lord’s work. These can range from the teaching program of the church (the Bible School), a visitation program, VBS, Gospel Meetings, benevolent works of different types, etc. Most congregations will also have various “occasional” events, like a special campaign of some sort. The mature Christian will consider how he may be able to “plug into” such programs. These church planned works have organizational advantages and allow God’s people to work together for the Lord, not only doing good work, but also fostering relationships in the Lord.
INDIVIDUAL INITIATIVE
Though well organized works of the church are very important, it is vital that individual Christians make use of self-initiative. Christians are to be “ready for every good work” (Titus 3:1). The entire work of the church cannot be programmed, and neither would it be good if it could. Christians, like Jesus, are people who go about doing good (Acts 10:38). Christians are salt and light wherever they find themselves (see Mt. 5:13-16). This is part of the power of the church. The members (hands, feet, eyes and ears) permeate different facets of the community as they reflect the grace of Christ.
Mature, and maturing Christians, will seek to keep their eyes open for doors the Lord is opening. Sometimes we may need to slow down and look out into the “fields” that we walk in each day and see that there are indeed souls that need to be cultivated and harvested! (Mt. 9:35-38). Yes, we need to pray for the harvest, but we also need to work with our Lord for it as well! (see 1 Cor. 3:5-9).
God has given all of us some ability or opportunity to serve Him and serve others in a way that will assist in preparing souls and building up the body of Christ in truth and love (see Eph. 4:15). Pray that God will help you find your place in His great plan to save souls in Christ!
Daren Schroeder