Why You Should Serve In Your Local Church

Growing up as a preacher's kid, I was immersed in the church environment from a young age. I witnessed firsthand my father's dedication and passion for serving God and His people. It inspired me to find my own place in ministry and use my gifts and talents to make a difference.

Before college, I found my passion in the worship department. Music was my passion, and I loved using my musical abilities to lead others into the presence of God. Whether that meant playing piano, guitar, drums, or singing, I loved being a part of worship. The worship team became my second family, and through serving in this capacity, I grew as a musician and developed deep and meaningful friendships.

However, when I moved to Tulsa for college, God had different plans for me. He pushed me outside of my comfort zone and revealed gifts within me that I never knew existed. I resisted this change, holding onto my desire to be involved solely in music. But as I prayed and asked for God's guidance, He transformed my heart and opened my eyes to the diverse opportunities for service within my church.

I knew I was still called to serve in the church, even if it was not playing instruments like I wanted. I had to pray and ask God to change my heart posture and be a clean slate to serve in whatever was needed for ministry. I ended up serving in youth, dance, and other areas of the church I never thought I would have to touch, but the biggest surprise to me was serving with the social media team.

Joining the social media team at my church has been one of the most unexpected blessings of my life. I never thought of myself as a content creator or even someone who should be trusted with holding a camera, but God has blown my mind during this season of my life. I can grow my new gift around people who are phenomenal at what they do, and it is beautiful getting to capture people's encounters with God. It has been so lovely to see a different side of ministry and be a part of something I would have never done had I been in worship.

But it didn't stop there. Through serving at my church, I also developed a heart for serving the community. I started reaching out to those in need and offering a helping hand. In these moments of selfless service, I truly understood the impact we can make when we step outside the walls of our church and into the lives of others.

Serving at my church has allowed me to discover new gifts and passions and deepened my relationship with God. I have witnessed firsthand the power of His presence and the transformation that takes place when we surrender our lives to Him. It is an honor and a privilege to be a part of something bigger than myself and contribute to my church's growth and impact.

Beyond these service areas, being actively involved in my church has sparked a passion for serving the community. I realized that ministry extends beyond the church walls and into the lives of those in need. Whether reaching out to the homeless, volunteering at local organizations, or simply lending a helping hand, serving the community has deepened my understanding of God's love and the impact we can make when we step outside our comfort zones.

Why You Should Serve At Your Church

1. God tells us to serve

The Bible talks about serving in multiple different scriptures. "Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others as faithful stewards of God's grace in 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 forever and ever. Amen, " - 1 Peter 4:10-11 NIV. God has blessed us with multiple gifts and talents; we need to use those gifts to glorify him. "Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not human masters, since you know you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving."- Colossians 3:23-24 NIV. By actively engaging in ministry, we fulfill our purpose as faithful stewards of God's grace.

2. Gives you a space to develop your gifts

Serving in ministry provides you with a space to exercise your gifts and talents and offers a platform for growth and development. Within the church community, you are surrounded by people who are passionate about their crafts and genuinely invested in your personal and spiritual growth. This supportive environment creates a unique opportunity to perfect your abilities and reach your full potential.

Imagine being part of a team where each member is committed to helping you thrive in your service area. Whether you have a gift for music, teaching, administration, or any other talent, there will always be experienced individuals who are willing to pour into you, sharing their wisdom and experience. Serving in ministry allows you to step out of your comfort zone and explore new avenues of growth. As you engage with others who share the same passion for serving God and His people, you will be inspired to push your boundaries and discover hidden talents within yourself. Maybe you've always been drawn to the idea of leading worship, but you've never had the opportunity to explore it. Within the church community, you'll find the support and guidance you need to develop your musical abilities and confidently lead others in worship. "

3. Builds community

Being involved in ministry also allows you to engage with like-minded individuals who share the same passion for serving God and His people. This sense of community creates an atmosphere of support and encouragement where you can freely explore and experiment with your talents. Whether singing in the worship team, teaching Sunday school, or participating in outreach programs, there are endless opportunities to discover new skills and hone existing ones. 

My church family has truly become a second family to me. It was so hard moving to Oklahoma from North Carolina, and I remember praying and asking God to send me a strong Christian community during my college years. Not a day goes by when I am not thanking God for the people he has blessed me with at my church. I cannot stress enough how important it is to get active in your church to find a good community.

If you're wondering why you should serve at your church, let me tell you this - it is a journey of self-discovery, growth, and spiritual fulfillment. God has uniquely gifted each one of us, and when we offer our talents and abilities to Him, He will use them in ways we never imagined.

Serving at your church is not just about what you can do for others but also about what God can do in and through you. So, I encourage you to take that step of faith to get involved in serving at your church. Whether in the worship department, youth on next-gen ministry, outreach, missions, hospitality, greeting, production, or community service, there is a place for you. Don't underestimate the power of your gifts and the impact you can make. Embrace the journey, watch God stretch you, reveal new talents, and transform your life in ways you never thought possible.

When you serve at your church, you become part of a larger mission beyond individual accomplishments. You contribute to the growth and impact of God's kingdom on earth. Your involvement in ministry is not just about what you can do for others but also about what God can do in and through you. He will use your unique gifts and talents in ways you never imagined, bringing about transformation in both your life and the lives of those you serve.

 So what are you waiting for? Get involved in your church and watch God move in your life like never before! :)