Pastor David’s devotional for September 21, 2022
I Corinthians 12:4-7
4 There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit distributes them. 5 There are
different kinds of service, but the same Lord. 6 There are different kinds of working, but
in all of them and in everyone it is the same God at work. 7 Now to each one the
manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good.
Within the church there are several foundational doctrines. One doctrine is “The
Ministry of all Believers.” The doctrine is just what it sounds—every Christian,
regardless of age or station in life, is called to serve in the ministry of the gospel.
Thinking back upon your life, is there a favorite ministry you have engaged in? If
so, what was the ministry and why is it a favorite?
When it comes to the Ministry of all Believers, it is important to remember that ministry
is not just something that happens at the church! Most ministries happen away from the
church, in places of work, in neighborhoods, on the golf course or bowling alley, among
family members—wherever it is that we are spending time with other people—because
ministry has to do with how we live our lives day in and day out. As you go about this
day, think about the opportunities that come your way to do something that is helpful
and blesses another person’s life. Ministry!
Sometimes as we go about living our lives, God nudges us to do something very
specific. Have you experienced God nudging you to do something or say
something? If so, what was it, and how did acting upon God’s nudge impact a
person’s life? Did it have any impact on your life?
I remember years ago when I was a new pastor, an opportunity arose for me to become
involved in youth ministry. I had served as a youth director at several churches prior to
becoming a pastor—so I had been there and done that! But the church I served was in
a time of transition between youth leaders, and a need arose as did a nudge from God.
At first, I was able to ignore the nudge. After all, I was already busy, and I didn’t need
more to do. But for the next couple of weeks, the nudge kept coming to the point that it
seemed like everywhere I went there was a reminder—you need to do this! Making a
long story short, I gave in and took over leading the youth. The youth program grew as
did the youth who were in the program, and I was greatly blessed by the experience of
being with the kids. My involvement only lasted a year before God’s nudge lead me to
do something else, but that year was a great blessing and I loved every minute of it.
Of course, nudges from God don’t happen every day. As a result, sometimes it can be
difficult to know God’s calling, and how best to serve God. In my sermon on Sunday, I
suggested four questions that can be helpful in discerning one’s calling and
opportunities to make a difference in the world. The first question is “what are you
spiritual gifts?” By Spiritual Gifts, I mean talents and abilities that can be used
for the common good (I Corinthians 12:7). We all have gifts and recognizing our
gifts can help point a direction for ways we can serve. What are your gifts?
The second question has to do with God given passion. What are things you love to
do? Make a list of a few of them. In my sermon, I mentioned loving to travel with
Geri, spend time at our Zion property, running my chain saw, and preaching and
teaching. What is on your list?
Now, think about these two questions related to your list: Why do you love it? And
what is the impact on others when you are doing it? The intersection between
things you love to do, the gifts you have to offer, and the needs of others is a great
place to look for opportunities to make a difference in this world. It may not be the only
place to serve—but it is a good place, one where each one of us can make a difference
in the lives of others for the common good.
God bless you and I hope to see you soon!
Pastor Dave
