“I can’t carry a tune.”

“I’m too shy.”

“My schedule is so full — I couldn’t possibly add another thing!”

Have you heard someone use these reasons and others for not serving in church? Maybe you’ve used one of these reasons yourself. But did you know we, as a church, are called to serve?

In 1 Peter 4:10 the Bible says, “Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God’s grace in its various forms.” As Christians, we are meant to serve others and, by doing so, show God’s love.

Serving in church benefits not only your church and those you serve, but it also benefits you and your spiritual walk. As you serve and are surrounded by other believers serving with you, you can see the Gospel lived out and be encouraged by that. Serving others can help you discover your purpose in life and give you a sense of fulfillment.

Jesus gave us the ultimate example of becoming a servant: “For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many” (Mark 10:45). He dedicated His life to setting people free by healing them, teaching them and delivering them. When we serve others, as Jesus commands us to do (Matthew 20:26), we are being Jesus to others, sharing His love.

The Bible tells us in 1 Corinthians 12:4-6 that as believers, we are given gifts from the Holy Spirit: “There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit. There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord. There are different kinds of working, but the same God works all of them in all men.” Serving in the church doesn’t have to look like one thing — it can take on many forms.

So you can’t sing or bake or speak in front of a group. That’s OK! Here at The Woodlands Methodist Church, we have so many areas where you can use your individual gifts and talents in service to others. Teaching not your thing? Be part of the media team each Sunday. Love to cook? Sign up to provide meals for those in need. Have a passion for knitting? Join the Craft Circle. Miss seeing your grandkids who live far away? Volunteer in Children’s Ministry and be a substitute grandparent on Sundays.

Being part of a team of fellow Christian servants gives you a group and provides a sense of belonging within your church. We long for meaningful relationships with other people. What better way to form those long-lasting friendships than by serving side-by-side. Won’t you join us?

Visit https://www.twmc.org/serve to find all the ways you can serve the church and serve others.