Called To Serve

The Bible says in 1 Peter 4:10-11: 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 that 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.

Maybe today or at one time in your life you have considered serving God or have been thinking about working in an area of Christian ministry. If so, you might have asked yourself these 2 questions:

1. Am I called to serve?

2. Am I qualified to serve?

If you are a Christian, the answer to the first question is YES, you "ARE" called to serve. Every Christian is called to be a servant of Christ. The Bible says in Luke 10:12, "the harvest is plentiful but the laborers are few." The ministry field is wide open both here in the USA and around the world. As a Christian, you are called to do God's work and this could be done by working in any type of Christian service. Every one of us possesses certain gifts and talents given to us by God that can be used to further His Kingdom. So now, to answer the second question; "Am I qualified to serve?" The answer is YES, you “ARE” qualified to serve. The 3 simple qualifications that I believe are:

1. Have an open heart.

2. Possess a willing spirit.

3. Have a sincere desire to further God's Kingdom.

If you choose to surrender to God's call, you are given ALL the authority in heaven and earth to do His will. You don't have to be called into full time "vocational ministry" (like an ordained minister or a church pastor) to serve God. There are many other ways and opportunities to serve Him in "layperson" capacities. You don't have to be seminary trained or bible college educated to serve God. Also, you don't have to possess specialized skills. Again, all you need is: an open heart, a willing spirit and a sincere desire to serve God.

Now, I would like to share a poem with you about serving God that was written by Christian Poet Walter Irwin. My sincere hope is that this poem will inspire you or at least open your mind and spirit to God's call.

A CALL TO SERVICE by Poet Walter Irwin

Another walk with God.

Another talk with God.

I’m finding that I need to know.

As into my heart He does flow.

Another open door.

Another opportunity shown.

I’m finding His will each day.

Glowing brightly as the sun’s golden ray

Another quench of my fears.

Another provision for needs.

I’m finding His supply is always ready.

His under-girding beams are strong and steady.

Another chance to share His Word.

Another day to pray for open hearts.

I’m finding His power beyond compare.

As He reveals Himself with gentle care.

Another time to see I am of clay.

Another spin on the potter’s wheel.

I’m finding His remarkable forming hand.

As a vessel is fashioned to meet the demand.

Another heart open to Christ.

Another hand is lifted to praise.

I’m finding this work is filled with glee,

And with this you will all have to agree.

Jesus is our all and all

Always be ready to answer HIS CALL.

Now, if you are confused and don't know where or how to serve, ask God to show you. Pray about it. Ask for His divine guidance and direction. Ask God to reveal to you what your gifts and talents are. Finally, and this is most important, in whatever capacity that you choose to serve God, do it for His glory and honor only, NOT for yourself. By doing so, God will give you all the power and strength that you need to honorably serve Him.

So accept God's call today and shout out to Him, "YES, LORD, SEND ME." AMEN