What steps can you take to fulfill your God-given role in the church? Anchoring Truth: Servants Assigned by the Lord “What then is Apollos? And what is Paul? They are servants through whom you came to believe, as the Lord has assigned to each his role.” (1 Corinthians 3:5) Receive Your Identity as a Servant • The verse calls Paul and Apollos “servants,” a title every believer inherits. • Accepting that identity brings freedom from comparison or self-promotion. • John 13:14 reminds that Jesus Himself washed feet, modeling servant leadership. • Step: Start each day by thanking God that He chose you to serve, not to shine. Recognize the Lord’s Assignment • “The Lord has assigned to each his role” speaks of personalized purpose. • Romans 12:4-6 shows different gifts in one body; diversity is deliberate. • Ephesians 2:10 affirms we are “created in Christ Jesus for good works… prepared beforehand.” • Step: List your God-given passions, skills, and spiritual gifts; note where they intersect with current church needs. Cultivate Humility and Dependence • Paul and Apollos did not manufacture results; they merely pointed to Christ (1 Corinthians 3:6-7). • James 4:6 promises grace to the humble. • Step: Before serving, pray privately for God’s power, acknowledging that growth belongs to Him. Grow the Gift through Faithful Practice • 1 Timothy 4:14-15 urges believers not to neglect their gift but to be diligent. • Skills sharpen as they’re used—teaching improves by teaching, mercy deepens by visiting the hurting. • Step: Commit to a consistent ministry slot—weekly, monthly, or seasonally—and stay with it long enough to mature. Serve in Unity with Others • Paul and Apollos complemented rather than competed (1 Corinthians 3:8-9). • Ephesians 4:16 pictures every joint supplying strength to the body. • Step: Encourage another volunteer each week; celebrate what God does through them. Expect Eternal Rewards • 1 Corinthians 3:14 promises a reward for work that endures. • Colossians 3:23-24 points to the Lord as the ultimate paymaster. • Step: Keep a journal of God’s faithfulness; let future hope motivate present perseverance. Daily Checklist for Fulfilling Your Role 1. Affirm: “I am Your servant; You assign my place.” 2. Review personal gifts and current opportunities. 3. Submit plans to the Spirit for humility and power. 4. Serve faithfully in the assignment, however small. 5. Strengthen unity by encouraging another servant. 6. Look ahead to eternal reward, fueling today’s faithfulness. |
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