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Service

Why serve?

The dead sea is dead because only takes in by Chris Priebe, 2000-08-12

In Israel there is a sea that is so full of salt and minerals that there is nothing living in it so they call it the dead sea. The reason it is like that is that it is always taking in the water as it pours down the Jordan river but it never gives any back. It just sits there and soaks it all in. The sun beats down upon it and evaporates all the excess.

In a similar manner if all we ever do is take in all the good things such as people helping us and God´s gifts, we will become dead on the inside as well. We are designed in such a way that we need to be both receiving and giving.

Idelia Haynes writes on 2001-06-17

I have always wondered where the name Dead Sea came about but never took the time to research it. Thank you for the information. Using it to explain how we sometime hold on to our gifts,knowledge and revelation of His Word is most powerful and made me asses myself to make sure I give out what I receive from the Word.

deecee4jaycee writes on 2002-03-07

I serve because I do not wish to stand before Christ and remember that all I did was "take in"...to me serving is a natural part of salvation...how can I know that Jesus Saves and not share this with those I love or those that are lost? Can a Christian be saved and not serve? You must answer this for yourself.

thalteman writes on 2003-11-12

I agree. We can not just take and not return. If I receive in abundance from the Lord, I expect myself to somehow return something to others, because I want to, not because I have to.

taximan writes on 2006-05-23

I´d just like to add that when we serve, the sense of purpose we feel in our spirit is tremendous, because that´s why we are created in Christ.

"For we are God´s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do." Ephesians 2:10

When we walk in this service we no longer have any fear at all that we are outside of God´s will for our lives, just a sense of fullfilment as God´s purpose is acheived in our lives. All we have to do to get to this place and hold up our hands to the Holy Spirit and say: "Here I am Lord! I´m willing to do what you ask."

God bless,

John.

http://www.loveabbotsford.bc.ca - This ministry puts feet to faith by providing disciples the opportunity to love their neighbor as themselves through acts of kindness. This is a great way to show unbelievers that love of God through His people.

Sheep and the goats by Chris Priebe, 2000-08-12

31 "When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, he will sit on his throne in heavenly glory. 32 All the nations will be gathered before him, and he will separate the people one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. 33 He will put the sheep on his right and the goats on his left.

34 "Then the King will say to those on his right, `Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world. 35 For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, 36 I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.¥

37 "Then the righteous will answer him, `Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? 38 When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? 39 When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?¥

40 "The King will reply, `I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.¥

41 "Then he will say to those on his left, `Depart from me, you who are cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels.42 For I was hungry and you gave me nothing to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me nothing to drink, 43I was a stranger and you did not invite me in, I needed clothes and you did not clothe me, I was sick and in prison and you did not look after me.¥

44 "They also will answer, `Lord, when did we see you hungry or thirsty or a stranger or needing clothes or sick or in prison, and did not help you?¥

45 "He will reply, `I tell you the truth, whatever you did not do for one of the least of these, you did not do for me.¥ 46 "Then they will go away to eternal punishment, but the righteous to eternal life." (Matthew 25:31-46 ). NIV

If we can learn one great lesson from this parable it is this: Whatever we do for someone, no matter how small it is or how small that person is, we are doing it for Jesus.

When you smile and encourage someone, you are smiling at Jesus.

When you help someone carry their groceries you are helping Jesus

When you stay behind to clean up the Church you are serving Jesus.

Even if no one sees, Jesus sees.

Even if no one cares, Jesus cares.

So whatever you do today remember this, it is for Jesus and it is significant!

deecee4jaycee writes on 2002-03-07

This reminds me of the verse in Matthew that says,"...let not thy left hand know what thy right hand doeth:" Matthew 6:3 b
Notice that this verse is talking about giving alms, which is a form of service of course, and also note that it definately says for the hands to be DOING!

D-lite writes on 2002-05-30

Earlier as one of my exercises, I chose to facilitate an Alpha group at our church. Now after about 8 weeks into the course, I have been asked to share publicly during the next pre-Alpha prayer meeting what God has done and continues to do in the group. Several people have made a recommitment to Christ and one man has given his life to Christ for the first time. Spiritual victories have been fought and won as God has opened hearts and minds to His Holy Son. Recently someone heard what God was doing in our group and this past week a new person, another badly broken soul, joined the group. This Alpha session is almost finished I pray that he finds the touch of Jesus on his heart before the meeting in this session. There are lives that will never be the same again. ìWhatever we do for someone, no matter how small it is or how small that person is, we are doing it for Jesus.î He alone is worthy!

thalteman writes on 2003-11-12

Matthew 25:31-46
Thankyou so very much. I was going crazy looking for this, and I couldn´t find/locate my notes or where I had seen it, But I knew I wasn´t crazy, and today, just after I started studying and Walla! Somehow I feel God knew I´d read it, and that I´d need it again one day, and in his wonderful and mysterious ways, he helped me yet another time.
And Thank you for making it a lesson.

s8nfighter writes on 2004-12-03

I was just going through some of the responses from the readers and came across this from "littleangle", "Preach Jesus, use words if necessary." I wonder if the message of Jesus would be conveyed today without language. Just an interesting thought and a good assignment for me, my Sunday School teens, and for you that read this, I challenge all to tell 2 people this month that you are a Christian without using words. It should be easy because it is December.
I have found the biggest compliment to me was in a question from a customer of mine. While working in her house for a short time she asked me, "Are you a Christian?" After I replied yes she said, "I thought so by the way you act." You know the Lord summed up the entire Old Testament with these words, "Do for others what you would like them to do for you. This is a summary of all that is taught in the law and the prophets." Matthew 7:12
Have fun with this challenge and challenge others, see how many people you can get to ask you if you are a Christian.

moj8668 writes on 2006-11-30

When my fourth child was born less than five years after the first, there were some days that I found myself frequently thinking "like I´m doing it for Jesus." With two in diapers, one nursing infant, a preschooler and a kindergartener (who was being homeschooled - what was I thinking!!!) I often felt like I would explode if one more person made a request of me. But I kept reminding myself that sometimes "the least of these" has to include the little ones that God entrusted to my care. That kindergartener is now 15 and a sophomore in high school so she is far more self sufficient. But there are still times that God gives me the opportunity to serve Him by serving those who live in my house.

Matthew 25:31-46; - Sheep and the goats

True religion includes caring for others by Chris Priebe, 2000-08-12

What is true Christian ministry? Is it just going to Church and giving a tithe? I once came across a very challenging verse in the book of James that challenged my small view of what it means to follow God. It reads, "Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world." (James 1:27 )

So often I tend to think of religion as well, doing religious things like going to Church, praying, teaching Sunday school. But here God is telling us that the kind of religion he is looking for is the kind that has feet and hands. The kind that goes over and helps people who are struggling to make it by. It might be giving money but it could also be helping them mow the lawn, or playing with the kids, or being a big brother or sister.

Another challenging verse is found in 1 John, "If anyone has material possessions and sees his brother in need but has no pity on him, how can the love of God be in him? Dear children, let us not love with words or tongue but with actions and in truth." ( 1 John 3:16-18 )

And later it says, "Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love." ( 1 John 4:7,8 )

True Christianity (and in this study - true service) is not simply going to Church. No God wants us to get our hands dirty and help the poor and the less fortunate. In short - to pass on His love. This is His passion.

How can you love someone for Jesus today?

deecee4jaycee writes on 2002-03-07

The God we serve is a living God, the Christ we love is a living Christ, The Holy Spirit is alive within all Christians....so of course Jesus wants us to care for the LIVING people he died for. I know that it is hard for us to realize that yes, Jesus cares if we have clothes, running cars, and so many other things that we think of as trivial. How awesome it is to be able to serve a living God.

thalteman writes on 2003-11-12

Makes me glad to know I worship a living God, one who cares for his people. Makes me happy to know that even though I am a sinner, that even some of the small things we do to help others is what our Lord expects of us. Service goes beyond just lip service.

It brings to mind a story I once heard. There was an individual who was sure that everything they did made them a religious person. One day this person paused long enough to ask God to come to supper at about 10:00 p.m. Somehow it is granted and so this individual is extremely estatic. "God´ is going to come to sup! So this person gets even more industrious to get the house clean and spotless, and to prepare a sumptous meal. Well, it was winter in this particular place and it was not only cold, but the wind was blowing that made the temperature drop even lower. At about 8:00 p.m. there was a knock at the door and this individual grumbled as he had to stop and answer the door. when opened, it was a little old lady quite along in years and she asked if she might come and just warm herself by the fire. The owner of the house told her he was much too busy and to go away and come back tomorrow and she shut the door. About 8:30 there was another knock at the door and this time it was a small lad who was seeking a little shelter and just a few scraps of food. the owner being now a wee bit more testy send the lad off and told him he should not be out so late but home with his family. Muttering to himself about another interruption he went back to tasks at hand. Well just as the owner was finished there was knock at the door again, and assuming it was the Lord he rushed to open the door, but became upset when all he saw now was some old guy in tattered shoes and clothing, shaking and trembling from cold and exposure to the cold. Well he just slammed the door yerllowing go away, I have special company coming. Well, with the table set and the meal ready to serve and in a grand house the owner waited. He waited one hour, then two, then into the wee hours of the morning before he realized that God was not coming and he raised his head and threw up his arms and wailed, Lord, why did you not come. I prepared everything for you, and now all the food is cold and the fire is out? As I have prepared for you The Lord spoke, but I came and knocked three times, and three times you turned me away.

Pastor Rich writes on 2004-04-10

Just a quick thought, because I brought this up to my class one Sunday. We were talking about those who only come to church once or twice a year.....and call themselves Christians.

If this is all they do, are they? If you go stand in your garage and make engine noises....does this make you a car? If you roll around on the ground and jump up and down, are you a soccer ball?

Think about it...nothing to get upset about....God knows all there is to know.

God Bless, Pastor Rich

James 1:27; - True religion includes caring for others

Those who have been loved, love by Chris Priebe, 2000-08-12

Another challenging verse is found in 1 John, "If anyone has material possessions and sees his brother in need but has no pity on him, how can the love of God be in him? Dear children, let us not love with words or tongue but with actions and in truth." ( 1 John 3:16-18 )

And later it says, "Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love." ( 1 John 4:7,8 )

These verses greatly challenge me. They tell me that if I have experienced God´s love then my automatic response will be to love. And so it is for when I realize how much God has loved me that he went so far as to die for me, that love fills me up and overflows by me loving those around me. But if I do not love, how can I say I know God´s love for the very nature of God´s love transforms us to love as He loves.

Idelia Haynes writes on 2001-06-17

I have always known that God loves me and that He commands me to love. My problem comes with loving those that use me, but this artile enlighten me more. It´s as if a light finely came on for me. The title, "Those who have been loved,love" - now I understand. I have been loved by God and if He can love me and my sinful self then it should be easy for me to love my fellow man. It´s so simple and clear now.

Chris Priebe writes on 2001-07-22

I try to envision perfect love. I love my child as no one else can and yet my love is so flawed. I believe that is the ultimate reward that we hope through faith to achieve when we enter into heavens gates. Gods perfect love. What would all the streets of gold and gates of pearl have to give us if perfect love is not present. I believe that everyone deep inside has an inborn desire to be loved so we seek it instinctively seek it all our lives. Even the unbeliever seeks it without knowing that only god is capable of loving us as we wish to be loved. I believe that he tells us first to love one another as he has loved us so that we can be witnesses to the unbeliever even if it is just reading to the elderly or helping somone in need. With the supernatural power of the holy spirit our flawed attempts at loving can be contagious and we allow god to use us as a tool to open minds and spirits to understand that there will be perfect love someday for all that believe and accept christ as their savior. I have sought love in this world and i have been hurt almost to the point of desperation. Life here has definitely taught me that love can be a very scary, hurtful, thing that i would rather avoid. Satan has truly once again distorted one of gods greatest gifts in the minds of the unbeliever. I long for the day when the perfect comes and the imperfect shall pass away but until then out of obedience to his word i will try to show love to others in need of it and ask him to use me and out of my submission to his will, others may be drawn to this magnificent, eternal promise of someday knowing perfect love.

- SavedByGrace

D-lite writes on 2002-04-29

ìBut they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.î (Isaiah 40:31 ). To love is to serve. To refuse to serve is to refuse to love. I like this translation of this verse best. It reminds me that waiting is not a passive, mindless exercise. When we wait on someone, we serve them. We do what ever is necessary to make sure their needs are adequately met. When we ìwaitî on or ìserveî others our own physical, emotional and often spiritual energies become low and so God exchanges our weaknesses for His strength. Our resources are renewed and re-energized, rather than depleted. Often spending time alone with His Father energized Jesus. He exchanged His will for the will of the Father and was strengthened and enabled to accomplish Godís plan of redemption for man (Mark 14:36-39 ).

There are days when God re-energizes me. This weekend has been an example. The weekend has been incredibly busy with ministry opportunities. At our church 38 people followed the Lord in baptism with several being from our own small group (all who were new believers). They invited their unsaved friends, some who had never seen a baptism before, which led to sharing the gospel message with one guest. Then serving as prayer hosts in the prayer room during one service. Then at the close of the day, I visited my elderly mother and sharing a few spiritual morsels of nourishment and praying with her. God always gives me a special word just for her, even when I have none prepared before hand. To serve is to love. To refuse to serve is to refuse to love.

D-lite writes on 2002-04-29

Love because we have been loved: The thoughts and sentiments you share in the second section resonate with some of my own experiences and heart. We all need to be loved and we all need to love. Some can only be loved in the power of the Holy Spirit. Firstly, because thatís how desperately needy they are and secondly, because we donít have the resources to provide the kind of love they really need. They need divine love and only God can provide and meet this need. One time a very hurting lady called me long distance on the phone and confessed, that she could no longer love her husband because she had nothing left to give. She did not want to see her marriage break up, but her resources were simply depleted. Although she wasnít a Christian, she was asking me to pray for them. I assured her that God did not intend her to love him with her own strength and love. All she needed to do was to take hold of Jesus Christ, receive Him as savior and He would love her husband through her and the power she would receive from Christ. She prayed to receive Christ right there on the phone. God gave her the power and love she needed.

D-lite writes on 2002-04-29

I identify with what you are saying. The only love that is truly sustainable (and eternal) is agape love. For out of it every other kind of love can flow. Before I became a Christian, I had been more than disappointed in my attempts at love (both with family and others). I was very afraid of making mistakes and ending up in a situation like my parents. (They had a horrible relationship.) Then I met someone who shared Godís love with me. Because I did not trust in myself, I decided that if God had loved the world enough to sacrifice His own Son for me, then He would also give me what I needed in order to find real love, if I trusted Him. I had just been given a Bible (right after I became a Christian) and had no idea where to begin. This Bible had a topical index and thatís where I began. 1 Corinthians 13 was my recipe to learning how to love. I learned that love is an act and a commitment, not always associated with feelings, yet feelings are related. I began seeing someone and used this portion of scripture to ìtestî myself. I couldnít bear the pain of rejection again and so I wanted to be sure my love would be on a solid foundation.

I decided that I would love like 1 Cor 13:4 Ö Was I patient with him when he didnít understand me? Was I kind to him? Did I envy him or his situation? Did I boast or make him feel inadequate? Did I display pride or arrogance? Vs 5 Ö Was I being rude to him? Was I self-seeking in the things I wanted from him? Was I easily angered if I didnít get my way? Did I hold things against him if we disagreed? Vs 6 Ö Did I get joy out of his struggles or was I willing to support him in the truth of his cause? Vs 7 Ö Did I protect his integrity and stand up for him when someone discredited him? Did I demonstrate that I trusted him and let him be the leader in our relationship? Did I hope and have the faith that God would bless this relationship? Would I continue to persevere and work at this relationship even if I was disappointed in him at times? Vs 8 Ö Was I actually willing to make this relationship the goal of my life on earth? Vs 9-11 Ö Would I allow God to teach me how to love like He loves through this relationship with this one man? Was I willing to trust God and make that commitment in my heart and then walk toward that goal?

Throughout the months I kept measuring myself against 1 Cor 3:4-13 and I discovered that Christ was changing me through this process. I could let go of my hurts, insecurities and fears as I was learning to love this person with agape love. My journey began with a commitment to my relationship with Christ and He has used this other relationship to teach me how to trust in God more deeply every day since. I still do not know how to love perfectly Ö but I know Godís perfect love and I know love as God intended it to be in a marriage relationship. I know now how to love unconditionally, people who have inadequacies and failures, but are nonetheless worthy of love, because God loved them first. Vs 13 Ö We can have all the ìfaithî in the world and we can have ìhopeî but it isnít until we have love that faith and hope really begin to do their work ñ because the ìgreatest of these is loveî, according to His standards.

1 John 3:16-18;1 John 4:7,8; - Those who have been loved, love

Good Samaritans love their neighbors by Chris Priebe, 2000-08-12

10:25 And behold, a certain lawyer stood up and tested Him, saying, "Teacher, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?"

10:26 He said to him, "What is written in the law? What is your reading of it?"

10:27 So he answered and said, "´You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your strength, and with all your mind,´ and ´your neighbor as yourself.´ "

10:28 And He said to him, "You have answered rightly; do this and you will live."

10:29 But he, wanting to justify himself, said to Jesus, "And who is my neighbor?"

10:30 Then Jesus answered and said: "A certain man went down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and fell among thieves, who stripped him of his clothing, wounded him, and departed, leaving him half dead. 10:31 Now by chance a certain priest came down that road. And when he saw him, he passed by on the other side. 10:32Likewise a Levite, when he arrived at the place, came and looked, and passed by on the other side. 10:33 But a certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came where he was. And when he saw him, he had compassion. 10:34 So he went to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring on oil and wine; and he set him on his own animal, brought him to an inn, and took care of him. 10:35

On the next day, when he departed, he took out two denarii, gave them to the innkeeper, and said to him, ´Take care of him; and whatever more you spend, when I come again, I will repay you.´ 10:36 So which of these three do you think was neighbor to him who fell among the thieves?"

10:37 And he said, "He who showed mercy on him." Then Jesus said to him, "Go and do likewise."

(Luke 10:25-37) NKJV

In this story we learn a great lesson. It was the religious people who walked by on the other side of the road. They are the ones who should have stopped and helped but they did not. It was the Samaritan (who in those days was despised and hated) who stopped to help. The point. Everything God wants you to do can be summarized in one little command, "Love God and love your neighbor" But who´s my neighbor? Its the same person who is right in front of you right now whatever his or her needs might be.

Imagine the change in our relationships if everyone in front of us was a neighbor we could show God´s love to?

deecee4jaycee writes on 2002-03-07

I think that it is interesting to note that the Ten Commandements teach this lesson also...the first four are commandments about God and the last six are about men (neighbors if you will).

Check it out at Exodus 20:3-18

Jesus told us to by Chris Priebe, 2000-08-12

After Jesus had washed His disciples feet He said to them, "You call me Teacher and Lord, and you say well, for so I am. If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another´s feet. For I have given you an example, that you should do as I have done to you. Most assuredly, I say to you, a servant is not greater than his master; nor is he who is sent greater than he who sent him. If you know these things, blessed are you if you do them." (John 13:13-17 ) NKJV

As Christians we are followers of Christ. And it was this Christ who gave us the example of how to live. He touched lepers, cared for adulterers, ate with sinners and spent his entire life serving people. If this is the example that he left us and our goal is to follow Him, then our service will seek to follow to the depths that His did.

John 13:13-17; - Jesus told us to

It changes you by Chris Priebe, 2000-08-12

I can´t count the amount of times I have stood in the Church after everyone is gone. There is garbage all over the place, dirty dishes and just a lot to get done. My temptation is just to leave it for the janitors, I mean it really is not my job. Or is it? Well anyhow, I really don´t want to do it. So for that reason I usually do it. You see I´m still growing in Christ and when my flesh starts kicking like that it is a good sign that I should get my hands dirty just for the experience of growing in humility and service.

And I find that if I do it my heart begins to change. I begin to leave my pride behind, I begin to love more, I begin to see myself for who I am and God for who He is. I usually end up thanking God when it is done. Not just that it is over :) but that I was able to grow.

futbolmamasita writes on 2001-07-22

My law of life is ´the more you do the Bigger your reward.´ What I mean about that is if you serve more, your reward in heaven will be greater. About a year ago, we were building a fellowship building at my old church. The youth were asked to help and they all complained, I looked at them and stated, "The more you do the Bigger your reward." They asked what I meant and I told them, so they quit complaining and worked.

ghoffmanpdx writes on 0000-00-00

I tried this at the new church we go to, and am now the youth director. This has been a true growth experience for me. Trying to reach youth that haven¥t heard a lot of the old testament in such a way that they are excited to learn more about it really forces me to HAVE to understand it. :-) Serving is awesome!!

deecee4jaycee writes on 2002-03-08

Growth is just another word for change...interesting to note, when growth occurs it is always you who changes. Even if you are helping someone else in their growth, that growth affects you and ultimately you change because of it....

Jen C. writes on 2002-05-05

I wanted to comment on the statement "The more you do the Bigger your reward" by futbolmamasita. While I agree that our heavenly rewards will be based in part on the good works we do here on earth, these works will be tested by fire ( 1 Cor 3:13-15). Those things we do with the wrong motive or attitude, i.e. to be seen by men, to feel good about ourselves, to receive praise or grudgingly with a grumbling spirit (since God loves a cheerful giver, doesn¥t He also love a cheerful servant?) will be burned up. The only works that will remain to be rewarded will be those inspired out of a heart of love to bring honor and glory to Jesus Christ.

C- writes on 2002-05-27

I often do things I don¥t want to do because I don¥t want the devil to defeat me and I have to show him who¥s boss, especially when it is something I really don¥t want to do. It will tear down the flesh and make your spirit happy. Sometimes, for example, I find it hard to be nice to people when they talk about me. But the bible tells us to love all people and to treat them with kindness. And we have to remember that we are a peculiar people, we are different, and we have to expect to be persecuted and talked about. So I try to love all people, not only being nice to them, but also letting them know about Jesus, because even when it seems like it doesn¥t work, the least it will do is plant a seed.

Chris Priebe writes on 2002-05-27

Test

Why Serve ! by lenblaides, 2001-02-07

As Christians, we are called to serve. First of all we are to serve the Lord with all our heart. ( 1 Samuel 12:20 )
Before we became children of God, we served sin, but now we are free from sin and are the servants of God.
In John 13:13-14 , Jesus taught his disciples a lesson on humiluty and service. They called him Master and Lord, yet he washed their feet. This washing of feet was a task usually assigned to the lowest slave in the master´s house; so by Jesus taking on the form of a slave (Philippians 2:7 ), he removed the shame that was attached to being a servant. How much more should I be one.
The Apostle Paul made himself a servant to all ( 1 Corinthians 9:19 ), and he urges us to serve in newness of spirit not in the oldness of the letter. For example, If your task was to pick up papers and gum wrappers from the floor, and there were also pop cans, don´t just take up the paper and leave the cans because you were not told to remove them. Clean the entire area and express the spirit of a true servant serving in newness of spirit.

Len Blaides

thalteman writes on 2003-11-12

I never thought of it as Jesus lowering himself to wash the feet of his disciples, but it gives clarity to me that being sevant to others is not a lowly task, but just as honorable. I may not have always liked or cared for some of the jobs/work i had to do or the people I had to work for, but I always prided myself in doing the best I was able to. The more I study the more I realize that most of which I do is for God and of all he has done for me in my life.

Pastor Rich writes on 2004-04-10

A very simple answer to a seemingly complex question, and the answer is...because Jesus did. A true servant sees something that needs to be done, and does it. No questions, not wondering, who did it or why it happened, they just do whatever needs to be done.

It may cost a few dollars to do it right, or an hour of your time, but looking back at Jesus, what was the cost??

was it worth it to Him? You bet it was. Will it be worth it to you? God will see to it that it is!

God Bless, Pastor Rich

1 Samuel 12:20;John 13:13-14;Philippians 2:7;1 Corinthians 9:19; - Why Serve !

Eternity in our Hearts by Arnet Hales, 2001-05-25

For many of the ongoing years of my Christian walk, I determined that "The journey was the destination." It is only recently that I have truly come to believe that the journey makes no sense at all if we do not keep in mind the destination. As a matter of fact, without eternity in mind all that we do here on this world is nothing but "hay and stubble." It is with eternity in mind that we have real purpose for serving. It has become my ongoing prayer that all that I do in this life will be measured in its impact in eternity.

The tasks that I undertake here must be undertaken because there is a rule in the life that is surrendered to the Lordship of Jesus Christ-that being What Would Jesus Do? But it is not for the impact that such a life would have in this realm, but the impact that such a life lived will have in eternity. My greatest longing is to speak with Paul those immortal words, "To live is Christ; to die is Gain" and to hear the Lord Jesus speak "Well done thou good and faithful servant."

thx

Arnet

userlw80 writes on 2002-07-04

Serving God on earth is to serve those who love God and also those who do not> Jesus Christ with all power at his disposal still washed the feet of his disciple(being a servant). Serving the people as if Jesus was right there with me, showing them the same kindness and love that God showed me when he gave his son to die for my sins.

thalteman writes on 2003-11-12

I have pretty much always believed that God has a role and a goal for each of us to do or perform, that we are here for reasons beyond what we can comprehend. I feel some people survive the worst of life that can be tossed at them and are left unscathed, until they fulfill the role they are meant to perform here before departing. So from cradle to grave, our task for God is ongoing, but I truely wonder how many of us succeed. I mean, One´s life may be lived to the whole for just to maybe do one single solitary thing, and then pass away? I wonder, am I doing or listening to or for what Gods asks or wants me to do?

How to serve / do ministry

WWJD? by Chris Priebe, 2000-08-12

The first question that we should ask ourselves is "What would Jesus do?" or "What would Jesus have me do?" This comes from the idea that we are following Jesus and He is our role model for the way to live our lives.

Originally it came out of a novel by Charles Sheldon called "In His Steps" where he wrote about what it might be like if an entire Church lived their life by the thought, "What would Jesus do?"

Some people find it helpful to get a WWJD bracelet to remind them but whatever it takes to have an attitude of following Jesus´ example.

brotherharry2000 writes on 0000-00-00

Congratulations on being inspired to write such a dead-on article! To overcome the major stumbling blocks in prison ministry one needs to point out that ¥deep inborn desire to be loved and to seek it¥ that you speak of. That one small sentence has opened many doors and MANY hearts in the prison setting. The state of our prison system nationally is horrendous and this statement has got more guys to listen than anything else I¥ve ever been told to speak about. This is an excellent article and a wonderous point of view and in my experience it works wonderfully!

deecee4jaycee writes on 2002-03-08

What would Jesus do is a life changing sentence and one which we can use in every aspect of our lives...I have a "How would Jesus drive" on the back window of my car and believe you me it sure changed the way I drive......

peacehaven_2000 writes on 2002-03-25

I have read the book "In His Steps" and thought it was very inspiring.What a wonderful world we would have if everyones only thought was, "What Would Jesus Do." I think that this would go hand in hand with the "Golden Rule" to do to others as you would have them do to you. Galatians 5:16 says to Walk in the Spirit and you shall not fulfill the lusts of the flesh. As a christian I find it hard to stay focused on the Lord 24/7.The Bible teaches that the flesh lusts against the spirit and sometimes my focus is not where it should be, such as when I find myself in heavy traffic and someone cuts in front of me without signaling. I might get angry at the other driver and have the temptation to yell something at him. This of course happens to many people, believer and non-believers and even pastors. My pastor shared a similar story about how he lost his focus at a gas station. I used to wear a WWJD bracelet and to tell the truth, it kept my mind more focused on the Lord and on my christian walk. It is a very good reminder even if you screw up and lose your focus because eventually you will look at it and the Holy Spirit will kindly remind you of your mistakes and then you can get back on track.I had alot of good times with my WWJD bracelet and used it to bring others to Christ, as others would want them and I would give them away.Thank you for this article, it has renewed my desire to wear one. I think the Lord would like to see one on everyones wrist.

D-lite writes on 2002-06-01

This lesson has a double edge. When we consider ìwhat it might be like if an entire Church lived their life by the thought, ëWhat would Jesus do?íî we begin to understand that indeed we have both the opportunity to serve and to be served in the context of this one lesson. Rightly so, because there are times when I do have resources and energies to offer in service and then there come times when I am desperately needy and pray that God will supply my needs through the grace and compassion of others He calls to come alongside.

ìIf you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any fellowship with the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and purpose. Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others. Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ JesusÖî (Phil 2:1-5 )

This passage has been a wonderful encouragement to me; because it simply assures me that when I have the same attitude as Jesus and do what He did, then I will look after the ìinterests of othersî. Then in turn, I do not need to be worried or anxious about my own concerns any longer because ìothersî will also (have the same attitude as Jesus) and look after my interests. This may sound like a very naÔve faith, but in reality, this is the kind of faith God requires of each of us. ìAnd he said: "I tell you the truth, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore, whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.î (Matt 18:3-4 ). The kingdom is made up of those who come to God as helpless children. I offer the little I have in service to God and He multiplies the blessing to others. Then He uses the little others offer in service and again multiplies the blessing in my life. Either way, I am blessed both in giving and receiving.

thalteman writes on 2004-01-23

I have been following God and Jesus for most of my life so far and I have those days still where it becomes all so, well confusing. Jesus said that if our burden is heavy that we should give it to him and by following in his example, the yoke would be much easier to bear. Even Pharisees can quote the bible as can even Satan, but like all schools, even those of thought, if not pondered in depth and taken to heart, there will be result, very much as in the the parable of the sower. You will only be able to perform with what you have put into any learning experience, and we must remember that each of us have different learning abilities. Rarely does that which one yearns in their heart ever come to be realized, but dreams come true, not wishing. So, though I have those occasssional bad days, I always have God every day to make it all worth my while. I was not there in Jesus´ time, so I can only wonder or guess at what Jesus would do, but I never tire of asking in prayer and believing that they are, in one way or another, truly answered, by God and through Jesus.

JesusLovesUS writes on 2005-09-22

the saying WWJD really does inspire me i meen i get tempted by the devil ona daily basis at work but i also before work pray for the lord to keep within me throughout the day and i also write on my hand WWJD so wen i look at my hand i think you know its great oh and hey man that how would jesus drive thats awsome.

Introducing the Illustration by Chris Priebe, 2000-08-12

I remember sitting in preaching class and wondering how on Earth it is that I am supposed to do all this work for the sermon and still give room for God to do His work. I had seen people just walk up there and start preaching and God mightily worked through them. Others put lots of work into it and it was some of the most boring things I had heard. So I wanted to know how the two are supposed to work together. This is what I came up with.

Edwin writes on 0000-00-00

I have discovered what is meant by accepting Christ and showing him to the world. What it is that god wants me to do. I am to serve him and him only, listen to what he asks and do as he wishes. No longer will I be acting on my own accord. By wearing the cross and giving up the old sinful way of life I was supposed to realize that I am dead to the old self. I had the right idea and now that idea is sprouting into my heart. I will no longer act self indulgence, god will give me what I need to do his will and I shall seek nothing but to serve him.

My role by Chris Priebe, 2000-08-12

We have a responsibility to do some preparation. So if I am working on a sermon I need to spend time digging into the Bible, praying, thinking things through, tying together my transitions, coming up with great illustrations. Now please don´t let me confuse you into thinking this is all human effort. All of this is based on a trust in God that He will help me to find out what is best for the congregation, He will stimulate my thoughts, He will teach me. In short, God will bless my efforts.

This can also be seen in the idea of organizing a Church picnic. I could just wing it and just trust God to make it all work out but if I am not a faithful servant and just a lazy one then no one will come because I never told anyone or promoted it, there will be no food since I did not co-ordinate it, there will be no games or fun since I didn´t bother taking the time to plan it.

So we have a role.

deecee4jaycee writes on 2002-03-08

And it is amazing to note that the people can always tell when you are "winging it". I have found this to be a big "turn off" with youth. Youth expect you to "know" that of which you speak. They only really accept honesty....trying to "appear" knowledgable is a big mistake and more often than not they appreciate the truth....even if that truth is I was too busy or I was lazy. I have discovered that youth will respond more to a truthful "I don¥t know but, I will find out" than to a "winged" answer.

Valerie writes on 2002-05-30

Hi, Pastor Chris,

I have just received my first lesson and enjoyed it very much.

I am called to a ministry called Care Fresno (That¥s where my church is - Fresno, CA) - it is an outreach to the "at-risk" children in the low-income neighborhood around my church. I can relate to your comments about being prepared. Because of the short attention span of most of my kids - I have to find ways to keep the Bible stories active and interesting. I simply cannot do that without being as prepared as possible.

However, I had never given a thought to how the enviornment of our meeting place might affect the attention span of my kids.

Thanks for bringing that to my attention!

Until the Shout!

Valerie

D-lite writes on 2002-06-01

welcome Valerie! Blessings on your work in Fresno. I am familiar with the city. I appreciate what you say about creating a conducive ministry environment. Preparation involves a lot. I have found that the better we do at preparing the ministry context, the more effective and impacting the ministry time will be in the lives of the participants. It is our responsibility to be properly prepared, not the Holy Spiritís. It is an insult to God to rely on Him to do what we were too lazy to do in preparation. He guides as we pray, but we still have to prepare the content and the context of the ministry as we check on the details and acquaint ourselves with the ministry environment. A ministry presentation can quickly go side ways if we fail in this area.

My ministry is all about helping missionaries behind the scenes in preparation for their public ministry in churches. The better I do my preparation, the better they can do theirs. I set up itineraries for missionaries to preach and teach at churches. Usually the most effective ministries take place when I can help the missionaries prepare thoroughly for their assignment. They need to know who their target audience will be (gender, age & how many), where the ministry will take place (home group, church or other meeting place); they need to have the proper equipment (sound, projectors etc); they need to know how long a time they have for the presentation. The MC also needs to prepare groups so that they donít have unrealistic expectations of the missionary. For instance, if the missionary is a doctor, chances are pretty good that he wonít do as well at preaching, as if he were a church planter. He will ìreportî on the work, but may not challenge people in the same way as an evangelist or seasoned preacher might. Helping prepare people is part of creating the context for an effective ministry where the Holy Spirit can work and move in new ways.

Invest your time beforehand by Chris Priebe, 2000-08-12

Now let me add another aspect to this dimension. Occasionally you will meet someone who will just stand up a start preaching or they will just arrive at the event and wing it. Sometimes it will bomb and sometimes it will work. In the cases when it works you will find one of two things often to be true. The first, they did not have any time to prepare so God just blessed them (as in the case when the pastor is sick Sunday morning and someone fills in). Or they have spent years preparing in advance. This is the case as when we memorize entire books of the Bible and then meditate on it for a few years or when a person has gone to school to study in depth. It does not seem like much work when they just stand up there and preach but it really is.

deecee4jaycee writes on 2002-03-08

Blessed "winging it" is the result of 1 Peter 3:15 . "But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear:"

D-lite writes on 2002-06-01

There are only 2 things on earth that are eternal ñ the Word of God and the souls of people. It is our privilege and calling to bring them together in relationship through Jesus Christ. If we donít take the time to learn how to do this effectively, many never fully experience the purposes for which God created us. I identify with Jeremiahís call, ìBefore I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations.î (Jer 1:5 ). Anything we invest in the Kingdom will pay great dividends, both here and now and throughout eternity. One of the immediate dividends is that God gives us more confidence if we take time to prepare for ministry. This preparation involves both the study of the Word and the study of people. The better we know the Word and the better we know people, the more effective God will make the ministry to them. Since only these 2 (souls of people and the Word of God) are eternal, is it not worth the time investment to study and prepare?

thalteman writes on 2003-11-12

I am going on ten years now as a Bible instuctor for mostly children from 1st grade to sophmores and it requires a great deal of commintment to use the Bible and Gods Word. So far I only lost one student, and it was wierd. It was because of a mother who wanted me to lie to her daughter and tell her that the easter bunny was real, that it layed, painted, and delivered eggs, and this from a woman who had never married, had three children by three diferent men, and worse she done it in not only in front of her daughter, but my whole class. I needed and believe i got Gods help. I told her I cannot lie as you ask me but...and I asked the children...do you believe in Easter...to which they replied they did...and i asked them if they believed in bunnies...and they responed in the affirmative... and so I looked and smiled at her politely and said Well...I guess there IS an Easter...Bunny...Mame. The director and parents supported me 100% but sad for the little girl as she cried because her mom pulled her out of my class and they left the church, which hurt, but I worked on, there were many who seem to love to know and hear about God and Jesus, so I keep trying, studying, and learning myself to help me, but better hopefully to help others. I know i have a long way to go, but can´t not have picnics because all doesn´t go well. I may not know what I am doing, but i am sure that God knows!

moj8668 writes on 2006-11-30

One other thought. There are those that simply are more comfortable speaking "off the cuff." When I have a choral concert to direct (I am a music teacher) I put a mark on each of the songs I want to say something about/introduce. I have a general idea of what I am going to say but I don´t prepare a speech or spend alot of time thinking about it. The elementary principal I work with, on the other hand, must write out everything that she is going to say. it´s not an area that stresses me but she can really get worked up if she doesn´t give herself adequate time.

christiangirl15 writes on 2007-07-12

You say,"How can God use me to reach others for Christ?" My church has been holding events and activities to reach our community for Christ. We had each Sunday School class to come up with one idea that they would do.There were many ideas such as go to a mall, a jockeylot, provide rides to people in the community who don´t have a way of transportation, and delivering meals to people who have been sick or are just not able to attend church for certain reasons.We are going to be holding a car show in the near future to reach our community.We had a guy to call a few days ago and asked if he could bring his car to put in the car show. We told him he could and that anyone who wants to can. He said that he was doing it because it was for a good cause. In the past, we have held a block party with two christian rock bands playing and free hot dogs for everyone. There is so much that you can do to reach others for Christ. You would be amazed at how much God can do with your help!

The people´s role by Chris Priebe, 2000-08-12

There is another dimension involved and this is the people. We can do all the preparations we want for a sermon but if the audience does not care, if there are distractions, if they disagree then the sermon will not be very helpful. This can be compared to a two-dimensional figure (like a square) where your role is one dimension and the people´s role is another. The two work together to give a surface area (or an amount of impact or change). The more you put into it, the more it will have an impact. Likewise, the more they put into the more it will have an impact.

So when you are preaching or organizing something you need to consider what the people are bringing into the equation and how you can help encourage that more. It might mean using creative illustrations, or talking to people one on one.

D-lite writes on 2002-06-01

This aspect again intersects with ìmy roleî in preparation. It is good to remember that we who serve are called by God to be the ìshepherdsî and the people are the ìsheepî that have come for feeding. Sheep donít do too much in preparation for feeding. They just show up and eat. So, it is still on our onus to initiate in their preparation as well. This involves both praying and planning. In my own hearts preparation I find that I need to bring the people before the throne of grace. As I am preparing, I am constantly praying for the people who will be receiving this spiritual nourishment. I pray that what I prepare will meet their needs. I pray that God will have prepared the soil of their hearts to be fertile and ready to receive the seed of the Word, so that it might do its work in their lives. I pray that none of the seed would fall into the crevices of a hard heart, but that all the hearts would be open and ready. I also pray for the leaders that are working with me, that they too will partner with Christ in this ministry endeavor and that they will whole-heartedly support and encourage people to come and invite unsaved friends and loved ones.

Sometimes although I do all these things, the ministry still is different from what I had hoped or expected. Then I simply give those hopes and expectations to God and ask Him to change them. I know that God always blesses faithfulness and as long as we prepare and serve out of faithfulness we can safely trust the results to Him to bless. ìBut thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, my dear brothers, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.î ( 1 Cor 15:57-58). That way we donít get puffed up with pride over the great things weíve done for God. That way He receives all the glory and honor, for it is He who gave us the wisdom in preparation and it is He who prepared hearts for change and it is He who allowed us to partner with Him in this great faith venture. All the praise and glory belongs to Him!

thalteman writes on 2003-11-12

Praise the Lord. I find this true with the high schoolers. They need total involvement to get their attention. Some of the other instuctors laugh with me at some of the approaches I take, but they work, and they keep coming back for more. Makes me feel good that God can use me this way. After all, he is the best teacher and they did call Jesus the Master. Who better to follow?
Glad I know I am not the only that struggles to do the Lords bidding and Will.

God´s role by Chris Priebe, 2000-08-12

But that is still not the full equation because God has an active role. In fact, God has a role in all things. Even the atheist who does not believe in God must depend on Him to help accomplish his goals. He trusts that God (though he would not call God God) will give him breathe and strength and hold the universe together by its very atoms. He thinks he is trusting in natural laws but if God withdrew His hand all these things would be nothing.

And it is God who changes people´s hearts in the sermon (not you or me). It is God who saves people, calls people, anoints people. It is God who does miracles, who takes my little words and actions and turns them into a mighty life-changing presentation. This is the mystery involved in service where God´s hand moves. Perhaps the key issue that I can mention here is how much are we inviting Him to move and are we trusting Him to move. Too often I fear we try to do things on our own, rather we need dependency on Him.

This forms a third dimension and so our illustration is now a cube and not a simple square. So if we took what we bring into it, what the people bring into it, and what God brings into it then we will have an equation of how much of a difference it will make.

futbolmamasita writes on 2001-07-26

I was called to be a youth worker, but I was also called to be a Christian Romance Novelist. Well, people ask me, "How do you write the books?" I always tell them that I pray and ask God to help me, He shows me examples to use.

seekker writes on 2003-03-31

I used to view "ministry" as God calling certain people to do certain "jobs" for Him ... like pastors, or missionaries ...I have since discovered that every one of us is called to a full time ministry ... as we do "our part" by spending time in our Father¥s presence, seeking His face, calling upon His direction and leading in our daily circumstances and situations that God provides a plehtora of opportunities for me to minister to the needs of others around me.

Examples of the 3 dimensions by Chris Priebe, 2000-08-12

An interesting example of the three dimensions is in Moses. He confessed that he is not an eloquent speaker and that he is slow in speech and tongue (Exodus 4:10 ). The people were not overly responsive, they resented Moses efforts because they had to work harder. Pharaoh as well could care less about Moses´ petition and his heart was very hard about letting God people go. And so from a human standpoint there was not much potential. But then God blew the third dimension through the roof! He sent down frogs, plagues, turned water into blood and parted the Red Sea.

So whatever situation you are in do your best and trust God to take your efforts and the people and do a mighty work beyond that which you would have imagined.

flutegal writes on 2003-12-15

I think it´s important for us to remember that in everything we do, we give God the glory. Everything that we do, we do for Him. We have to put our flesh aside and make God the focal point.

Exodus 4:10; - Examples of the 3 dimensions

How to serve/do misistry by Lee James, 2001-05-31

Examples of Ministries:

I want to dedicate this article to examples of way to do ministry, the first one is a suggestion by Lee James

-------
I don´t quote scripture very often but look at (Mt 25:36 ). I am a prison corrections officer but work at another job to avoid a secular conflict of interest. I am a witness in a jail and prison ministry. The Lord led me to the training as a corrections officer and as a police officer so I could understand the viewpoint of those in prison. I pray each night for the Lord to help me have a greater inluence with those in jail. Our jails and prisons are full of lost,lonely people that have no hope and no future without Jesus. I tell the inmates the only difference between them and me is I didn´t get caught when I was younger and now I have Jesus. These people are lost and hurting. I recently saw a tank of 25 inmates all come forward and get on their knees for the sinners prayer. I suggest you talk to your Pastor about joining a prison ministry and starting one if your church isn´t already involved. Those people don´t look like the Lord but you can count on Jesus knowing every one of them by name.

deecee4jaycee writes on 2002-03-08

What is a ministry? That word brings up visions of great preachers reaching hundreds of thousands of sinners in a huge coliseum or a nurse running across a mine infested field to stop the bleeding of a wounded soldier as she also leads him to the Lord...but ministry is so much more than that...ministry is a mother that endlessly sings hymns as she goes about her housework, imbedding those same hymns into her childrens brains and then as one of those children finds himself locked in an enemy prison he finds the courage to continue on by recalling those hymns once sung by his mother and he in turn shares them with the other prisoners of war....ministry is a father that always bowed his head and gave thanks to the Lord for the things that the Lord had provided, even if those things were only red beans and potatoes for the hundreth day in a row....ministry is a little second grade boy asking with loving innocence if his playmate knows Jesus like he does....ministry is a teenager saying "no" to R rated movies and then telling that the reason they are wrong is Jesus...ministry is the lady at the grocery store that always smiles when she checks you out and always says "God bless you" when you leave....
What is ministry?

userlw80 writes on 2002-07-04

I try to minister to the people with a light heart being of service as though I,m doing it for the Lord. Trying to do it so that it is a help to the people as a way of exhorting them not to make them feel bad.

thalteman writes on 2003-11-12

Generally, most every christian can talk to another Christian and get along well with that other person, but, try to talk to someone who does not agree or who thinks that God has abandoned him or her, and now you have the Lords work cut out for you. Most of those in the prison system are referred to as Bible thumpers. They turn to God while they are in but dump the Bible while they are out. They are hard to reach if not sometime impossible if they are to far gone. Some even worship the devil. some realize and with proper instruction turn their lives around and over to God. I once heard someone say God puts bad people in jail as a last resort to reach them and win them over.

Mt 25:36; - How to serve/do misistry

To Know Perfect Love by Savedbygrace, 2001-07-22

I try to envision perfect love. I love my child as no one else can and yet my love is so flawed. I believe that is the ultimate reward that we hope through faith to achieve when we enter into heavens gates. Gods perfect love. What would all the streets of gold and gates of pearl have to give us if perfect love is not present. I believe that everyone deep inside has an inborn desire to be loved so we seek it instinctively seek it all our lives. Even the unbeliever seeks it without knowing that only god is capable of loving us as we wish to be loved. I believe that he tells us first to love one another as he has loved us so that we can be witnesses to the unbeliever even if it is just reading to the elderly or helping somone in need. With the supernatural power of the holy spirit our flawed attempts at loving can be contagious and we allow god to use us as a tool to open minds and spirits to understand that there will be perfect love someday for all that believe and accept christ as their savior. I have sought love in this world and i have been hurt almost to the point of desperation. Life here has definitely taught me that love can be a very scary, hurtful, thing that i would rather avoid. Satan has truly once again distorted one of gods greatest gifts in the minds of the unbeliever. I long for the day when the perfect comes and the imperfect shall pass away but until then out of obedience to his word i will try to show love to others in need of it and ask him to use me and out of my submission to his will, others may be drawn to this magnificent, eternal promise of someday knowing perfect love.

Miles Tucker writes on 2003-11-15

We as christians might know perfect love through Jesus and we may love others just as he has loved but other unbelievers might not know it. It is our job to outwardly and physically express this Love. Jesus changed lives by telling and exclaiming but by also showing and doing. Love can be expressed by un believers as well. It is our job to tell the others why we love. To love an unbeliever and never tell them why will never change them. They need the explaination of Gods perfect love. They are directed to the supplier, the very source and introduced to the maker for the first time. Now that is true love.

Being humble

Don´t lord over but be a servant by Chris Priebe, 2000-08-12

I have seen two kinds of leaders in the groups I have worked with. One kind love to be a leader so they can stand up tall and look down on all the petty followers and give orders. This gives them a sense of rush. Others go around and look for ways to help. They see hurting people sitting in the sidelines, they see dirty dishes and start cleaning. Completely different attitudes. Jesus said,

"You know that the rules of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their high officials exercise authority over them. Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be your slave--just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many." (Matthew 20:20-28 )

Many leaders today stomp on toes in order to climb the ladder of life only to find it leaning on the wrong wall. Jesus taught us to lay down our life on a cross so we can help others up to the way of life.

deecee4jaycee writes on 2002-03-25

This category really stumped me for the last ten days...how do you respond to being humble without sounding "unhumble"? Humility is something that is within and not something that can be talked about for the more you talk about how humble you are the less humble you are! Part of an old Country and Western song kept repeating itself in my mind....

Oh, Lord its hard to be humble
When you¥re perfect in every way
I can¥t wait to look in the mirror
¥Cause I get better lookin¥ each day
To know me is to love me
I must be a heck of a man
Oh, Lord its hard to be humble but,
I¥m doin¥ the best that I can....

A perfect example of this kind of humility is found in the teachings of our Lord...Luke 18:10-14

True humility can be found in Luke 1:35

Jen C. writes on 2002-05-05

I have been active in an adult singles ministry at my church for over three years now. One of the ladies who helped start the ministry and serves as a leader asked me if I would consider being a group leader over a year ago. My response seemed right - I promised to pray about it and told her I would get back to her. My answer ended up being no because I didn¥t think I was gifted in leadership or mature enough in my faith. A few months ago God showed me through a devotional that "leaders" are really SERVANTS. I didn¥t have to be good enough or wise enough only HUMBLE enough to serve.

plumcharlie writes on 2002-07-03

I tend to be the leader that tries to do everything - not to impress others, but to impress myself. I know that sounds a bit strange, but I truly get a kick out of doings things for God and His people. Many times, my help is not needed or even wanted and I will get my feelings hurt. But yesterday, God reminded me of how a college youth wanted to help with our VBS program and was assigned to my group. When I discovered who my helper was, I was annoyed. She is a spiritually great person - but somewhat lazy. But God, in His wonderful way, humbled me when I volunteered to help out with our skit and was turned down. He showed me that it hurts not to be wanted or needed and even though we desire to do things, others may have other ideas and/or motives. I thanked God for blessing me with some humble wisdom and realized that my helper will do just fine and long as I give her something of her interest to help with. I was being unfair. Lazy (in my opinion) or not, she did volunteer to serve. Now, I am praying that God will show me how to best serve her.

userlw80 writes on 2002-07-04

I have worked with two people who made my life miserable because they became a dictator in the position hoping that the manner in which they tried to force us to work would gain respect for them. I did the job but it was only until the person became a part of the department not a dictator did the attitudes of those in the department change and we all became more productive because we started to like coming to work. Having a humble spirit will gain the respect, being a dictator will make the people abandon you.

Pastor Rich writes on 2003-02-21

There are those who do what they are asked, and then there are those who "just do".

Servants can be in either group, but just to see something that needs to be done, and doing it is a good characteristic of "being like Jesus". The book of Matthew, I feel, gives the best things or descriptions, on what it means to be like Jesus. Here are just a few examples:

1. Matt 3:1-17 commiting ourselves to other believers, no matter how "Weird they appear to be.

2. Matt 4:12-25 openly proclaim the message of Christ.

3. Matt 10:1-42 affirm others in leadership.

Then fourthly (and keeping with the subject), Matt 8:1 - 9:38 To be like Jesus, means to serve others, especially those who are oppressed or without Christ.

Don¥t wait to be asked..."Just Do It"!!

Shalomtoyou321@aol.com writes on 2004-02-03

Romans 6-16-22 Man is by nature prideful...I find that there is two types of real servants,
Servents of the flesh, and servents of the spirit
We are called to live in the world but not to be as the world. Remaining free from sin,the things of the world like pride should be veiwed shameful in our eyes as we become servants of God, with the fruit of holiness. It was Pride, to be as God that caused Satan to be cast out of heaven. Jesus Christ came to show us from His humble beginnings at birth, that He came to be a servant of God the Father, surrendering His will that God´s will be done. Sometimes it is important for us to let God "Tear" us down, in order to build us up. To be humble is a learning process not something that just comes to us. We are flesh and prideful by nature, and we cannot conquer this by ourselves, and we are lied to when we think that we can overcome this and become humble without Gods help. Sometimes we must be chastised,(Because he loves us) taken to the bottom, to be taught the fullness of being really humble, and built up. We as Born Again Christians come from servants of sin to servants of righteousness, but it is a process, and the more that we strive to be holy, then we will be able to experience the realness of being humble, and there comes with this a real burning inside to serve others, for that is the example Jesus gave us, OTHERS.

Matthew 20:20-28; - Don´t lord over but be a servant

Know who you are and wash feet by Chris Priebe, 2000-08-12

It was just before the Passover Feast. Jesus knew that it was almost time to die, the Devil was working in Judas to betray Him. And there he was with His disciples - the last meal together. He wanted to show them the fullest extent of His love. Now He knew He had come from God and God had put absolutely everything under His power and soon He would be returning to God. He knew exactly who He was, the King of kings and Lord of lords. And it was for that reason He got up, took off his outer clothing, wrapped a towel around his waist and began to wash the dirty smelly feet of those who called Him Lord.

And this my friend is humility and love. To know exactly who you are and to do things that are far bellow your position. Humility is washing toilets, cleaning up other people mess, washing puke off the floor, picking up dog poop, serving in any way that calls you to get on your knees and help another. This is the way of the master who went so far as to take all your sins on the cross and die so you may be clean to wash others feet.

D-lite writes on 2002-06-01

Humility and love are two sides of the same coin. We are not called to serve out of position, but out of love. Our service is not defined by what we do, but by the attitude, we have in doing it. The particular act of service is not the focus, but the fact that we are willing and available to serve is. God uses only those who are faithful, available and teachable, regardless of how gifted one may be. If any of those attributes of character is missing, we are rendered ìuselessî to the kingdom.

Each month a group of Jesusí disciples who live in our town take a day to wash the feet of the people of our community. Then once a year (June 14-15, 2002), we have a ìKindness Explosionî. That day many disciples will walk throughout the community streets, offering services and gifts in the name of Jesus, to people they meet. This is a very exciting time as you experience the reactions from people. Some people are amazed and others simply wonít accept this gesture of kindness because it comes in the name of Jesus, but either way the name of Christ is lifted up in this community.

Kevin Boese, author and songwriter leads in the theme song for this ìKindness Explosionî with his song ìThe Adventure of Jesusî (http://www.houseofjames.com/product_776098118322). This is a great resource to help people focus on humble service. Jesus said that the Greatest Command is to love God with all our heart, soul, and mind. In response to the overwhelming love that God has shown to us, we want to worship Jesus with everything we have. Then Jesus added a second, related command, "Love your neighbour as yourself.î The intent is to show God¥s practical love to our neighbours and the world through the church. For other ideas check out the website http://www.loveabbotsford.bc.ca.

tammyingham writes on 2002-06-05

This is a hard thing for alot of people. Where, in todays society we are hard hearted people with egos, we don¥t want to service anyone but ourselves.
We must learn to help with an open heart.

Be a servant, don´t just serve by Chris Priebe, 2000-08-12

And how does one serve to such an extent. The only answer is to become a servant. It is not enough just to serve because soon we will tire out and we will say, "It is not my job" We must take on the very nature of a servant. We must be a servant. This is what it means to be like-minded with Christ - to consider others better than yourself. He is the very nature of God but He did not fight and kick with the Father in order to have a position but made himself nothing, took on the very nature of a servant. Imagine one who´s nature is God taking on the nature of a servant? We ought to be like Him and instead of striving to be recognized we should lower ourselves and become servants. He walked on our earth and humbled himself to the point of death. It was then that God the Father exalted Him to the highest place and it is only in our humility that we will truly move forward. (Phil 2:1-11 )

futbolmamasita writes on 2001-07-22

In my thougth about being dry, I mentioned the word ´lead worshiper.´ I don´t know if you caught it, but it means that you need to worship yourself, but lead people in their worshiping. You are not just leading songs, you are setting an example, you must serve the audience by showing them the words and tune.

D-lite writes on 2002-06-01

Christ knew who He was before His feet set on this planet. He knew His position, destiny, and nature (the God-Man). He could set aside whatever He needed in order to accomplish His mission and purpose. We are in Christ. We choose to put on the attire and attitude of the servant. This is a high calling and privilege, because we are children of the King of Kings and Lord and Lords. In Christ we can put aside our own nature (sin) and put on the nature of Christ, because we have been bought by His blood.

Godís Word tells us that He hates pride and that He will humble the proud. ìTo fear the LORD is to hate evil; I hate pride and arroganceÖ.î (Prov 8:13a). It also tells us that He exalts the humble. ìFor everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted.î (Luke 14:10-11 ). ìThe greatest among you will be your servant. For whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted. (Matt 23:11-12 ).î

It seems to me that either way we will be humbled. We can do it by our own choice, or we can let God do it for us. I pray that He would give me a teachable spirit and the grace to humble myself, before He has to do it for me. ìAnd when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away. Young men, in the same way be submissive to those who are older. All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because, ëGod opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.í Humble yourselves, therefore, under God¥s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time.î ( 1 Pet 5:4-6).

Phil 2:1-11; - Be a servant, don´t just serve

Let people treat you as a servant by Chris Priebe, 2000-08-12

And now here perhaps is the ultimate test of true humility. How do you react when others treat you like the servant you claim to be?

ghoffmanpdx writes on 0000-00-00

I try my best to not respond with bitterness and to always say "Yes sir/ma¥am, No sir/ma¥am" as the case maybe. I do this with those older and younger than I am. But, it all depends on the attitude of the other person, too. Someone can treat you like the servant you are and not be mean about it, and others just LOVE to rub it in your face.... I hate to mention relativism, but in this case it is relative.

deecee4jaycee writes on 2002-03-25

To be honest I ususally react with my human self first and then I have to consciously choose to allow Jesus to handle that...for I cannot do it on my own...my prayer is to allow Jesus to serve through me as my first response and not my second effort....I do know that choosing to be a servant is alot better than being forced to serve.

D-lite writes on 2002-04-30

If the person is ìlording it overî and being particularly nasty Ö I pray asking God for an extra measure of grace and then Ö I cry Ö and apologize for my mistake, misunderstanding or just plain inadequacy. Some people have a need to make people feel small, so that they can make themselves feel bigger. We donít have to let them bring us ìto their levelî. God gives grace to the humble Ö

Miles Tucker writes on 2003-11-15

I Love it when they treat me like the servant I am trying to be. It shows me that I´m doing my job right. It´s always better to serve a humble person but the true test is to serve the ones that aren´t worth serving and tell them why I serv them. Not just because Jesus tells me to but out of Love.

The Lord SustainsThe Humble. by Savedbygrace, 2001-07-22

Pride is the killer of a humble spirit. It enables exalting of ones self to make them feel important. The Lord sustains the humble for they are not spending their time thinking others should reverence them but they are submissive to the will of god and willing to serve others. Being other centered instead of self centered just as christ humbled himself to suffer and die on the cross paying the ultimate price as a service of love for the salvation of everyone who believes.

Spiritual Gifts and you

What are they? by Chris Priebe, 2000-08-12

Spiritual gifts are special abilities that God gives to Christians in order to fulfill a role. Each Christian is given a spiritual gift(s) based on the task God has for them in the Church. Another way of looking at is that we all receive the Holy Spirit at conversion and the Holy Spirit manifests Himself in many ways (such as powerful preaching, or miracles, or prophecy, or the ability to distinguish between spirits) ( 1 Co 12:7-11). These help form our role in the body of Christ (or the Church). Let me highlight some key verses on gifts. The main chapters on it are 1 Corinthians 12 to 14, Romans 12 and Ephesians 4 .

- Even though we all have different gifts we all have the same Lord ( 1 Co 12:4-6) and so unity is important

- We are given gifts for the common good not for personal gain ( 1 Co 12:7)

- They are given as the Spirit determines ( 1 Co 12:11). This is an important verse as I have met some who are discouraged they do not have a certain gift (like tongues or preaching) but they can be comforted that God has determined it and it is not their fault but God has something better.

- We are already baptized into the Body of Christ ( 1 Co 12:13) Although this is not directly about gifts I mention it to counter the misuse of the term "baptism of the Spirit" as a post-conversion event.

- We need each other. No one gift is more important than the rest. There is no room for pride but only co-operation. ( 1 Co. 12:14-26)

- Tongues is placed as less significant than other gifts and we are exhorted to seek the greater gifts ( 1 Co 12:27-31) I say this to respond to the movement that says one must speak in tongues to be mature. The Scriptural account of 1 Corinthians 12-14 clearly de emphasizes tongues and puts the emphasis on such things as prophecy and greatest on love.

- If I don´t love all my gifts are useless ( 1 Co 13)

- Try to excel in gifts that build up the church ( 1 Co 14:12)

- Only 2 or 3 people should speak in tongues at a service ( 1 Co 14:27) and only when there is an interpreter ( 1 Co 14:28)

- 2 or 3 prophets should speak and everyone should weigh carefully what is said, and this should be done in an orderly way. ( 1 Co 14:29-31)

- We have control over our gifts ( 1 Co 14:32) This is more of an application than an observation and you might disagree.

D-lite writes on 2002-06-01

It begins by developing the spiritual fruit. ìThus, by their fruit you will recognize them.î (Matt 7:16-23 ), not their gifts. Spiritual gifts are for everyone (in Christ), whether or not they even realize they have them. When my children were very young, I gave them gifts at birthdays, Christmas and other times. But they didnít even realize that what they had was a ìgiftî. They just enjoyed themselves with it. My focus in training my children was to teach them how to share their ìgiftsî with others unselfishly (rather than teaching them about the wonder of the gift itself). I found that teaching them to share was more effective in helping them develop a true appreciation for what they had. ìBut the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the sinful nature with its passions and desires. Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit.î (Gal 5:22-25 ).

More often than not, I find people using their spiritual gifts although they donít realize they have a certain gift. They received their gifts at the time of conversion, when they were too young in the Lord to realize everything that came with their spiritual birthright. As they grew in the Lord, they learned through experiential mentoring/discipleship they learned how to pray, worship, and serve in the body of Christ. They never really focused on ìtheir giftsî. They just served out of joy, love and obedience; and God blessed it. People need to experience the freedom to learn and serve and therein they will discover their area of giftedness and passion.

D-lite writes on 2002-06-19

The advice about ìwhat gets you excitedî is both insightful and helpful. That advice has helped me to focus some of my own goals. I would also agree that God has gifted you to be a teacher and preacher and you have used your gifts in amazing ways - ways that are new and exciting as you use this website to impact more lives than you ever could any other way. When the Word of the Seed fell into your life it landed on fertile soil and through this website ministry it is producing many fold more than you can imagine (Matthew 13:23 ). That is what I pray for as the Seed you are spreading falls into the lives of others through this internet ministry, that it will produce even more in the lives of other than it has in yours.

GodsWarrior writes on 2002-06-19

Something else too I had learned while doing a study on the gifts a while back was this: When people do not use their gifts God gave em, Who does it hurt?

Not them selves but the body, God gave us these gifts that together we use to build up His body. So in sense we hurt the church.

Just a thought is all,
Marty

dancingbear writes on 2002-07-15

As I sat in the park with my wife ;a man approached us and said "do you speak in tongues any time you want?
Also i would like to know how to tell if a preacher or church member or anyone whom in a church service begins to speak in tongues wether or not he or she is not realy doing it;more still how can they give a valid interpretation since without the Holy spirit one can do nothing to build up the body of believers?
Since the gifts are given & determinend by the Holy Spirit how can one say he has control over his gift or gifts?

PASTOR CHRIS´ RESPONSE: Wow, that should open up a can of worms. Well I don´t want to go into a big discussion about whether tongues is real or not, this is not the spot and not what you asked. What I will say is that in the gifts I have -- like preaching - I have some control over it. It is a joint-event but I confess that the Spirit has a huge role in it. Or when I prophecy I have an intense burden to share the image on my heart and I have a choice to hold it back till an appropriate time or speak out. It is written, "The spirits of prophets are subject to the control of prophets. For God is not a God of disorder but of peace." ( 1 Cor 14:32-33) I suspect there are similiarities in all the gifts. God doesn´t usually just take over but works through us. Anyone else have some thoughts on the matter?

D-lite writes on 2002-07-23

I would agree with Pastor Chris. God works through us. Thatís the way that we serve one another in the body in the name of Jesus. All the gifts are given to build up the body. He sent His Holy Spirit to fill and control us, so that we could carry on the work of Christ after His ascension back to heaven. We use everything God has given us to glorify Him and bring honor to His name. That would include spiritual gifts.

Certain gift mixtures are commonly combined, such as teaching and preaching for example. It would be very rare to come across a believer who would have only a single gift. I would think that if one has the gift of tongues, one might also have the gift of discernment, so that one might exercise the gift appropriately. That would give them the power to control how they use their gift. I know people who have this gift and Iím often impressed at how they choose to exercise it. One could use the gift whenever they want, but they may choose not to. I have also come across newer believers that do ìspeak in tongues anytime they want toî. There could be various reasons for that. It could be that their newfound joy in the Lord is difficult to contain and they break into tongues praising God, or perhaps itís because they havenít developed the gift of discernment as fully as they have the gift of tongues and do not realize the importance of ìa word aptly spoken is like apples of gold in settings of silver.î (Prov 25:11).

I think that it is more important to exercise the fruit of the spirit, than the any gift of the spirit. For if we do, then the question about how we use our spiritual gifts will solve itself. ìBut the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the sinful nature with its passions and desires. Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying each other.î (Gal 5:22-26 ). For if we all practice these qualities, then our gifts will be used entirely appropriately. ìAnd now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.î ( 1 Cor 13:13).

ioweHim writes on 2003-06-10

The Holy Spirit has given me an abundance of mercy as my gift and I´m so glad to have it! Sometimes it doesn´t feel so much like a "gift" though, as my heart is so sensitive to others that I´m heartbroken a lot. I feel it makes me a very powerful prayer.

thalteman writes on 2004-01-23

This movement, the group you refer to are called "THE HOLY ROLLERS!" Actually they are really known by God and Jesus as Pentacosts, and they do look at speaking in tongues as a gift from God and usually the ones who speak in tongues have it interpreted by by another. People often refer to them as a "movement" not of God, an untruth, but are none-the-less Christians, not "fanatics", just sometimes get over joyed in the Lord. I shouls know ;-), even though this may displease you and others. I´m not anymore, but I also belonged to the "Bretherns" and several others, and if you must wonder why, it has to do with knowing God and his Son Jesus the Christ, our Savior, the Messiah.

s8nfighter writes on 2005-04-14

I would like to respond to just this little part of your article, ("They are given as the Spirit determines ( 1 Co 12:11). This is an important verse as I have met some who are discouraged they do not have a certain gift (like tongues or preaching) but they can be comforted that God has determined it and it is not their fault but God has something better.") especially the God has something better part.
I too have been told that the only way you can be filled with the Holy Spirit is to speak in tongues, this led me to do a study of the gifts and also of being filled with the Spirit.
The first thing, according to Christ our Lord, the first thing that happened when the Holy Spirit came upon me is that my sins were revealed. Then by asking the for the forgiveness of my sins the Holy Spirit takes up residence within me. The only important thing that happens next is that we die to this life and submit our lives to Christ and in doing so we realize the \"better thing\" that God has in store for us is the perfect union with God which happens in heaven. That is the goal which Paul speaks of the goal that he is so intent on recieving. It is not of the gifts that we use (\"misuse\") to draw attention to ourselves.
If Jesus was meek enough to keep saying, \"It is not about me, it is about my Father\" then why do we find it so important to draw attention to ourselves? Yes Jesus said you will know them by their fruits. He also said this, \"I will know you love me if you keep my commandments.\" There is only two and neither is about ourselves the first is about Love God with all your heart, all your mind and all your soul. The secomd is love your neighbor as yourself. Neither of these two commands places importance upon self. That is why if there is not \"LOVE\" there is nothing, nothing at all of any value.
There is only one prize of value and that prize comes with death to ourselves and rebirth to Christ. Keep in mind that it is appointed to each person to die but once. Now or later.
Darrell

per writes on 2005-05-02

The Giver, God, is more important than the gifts. The gifts are only means, Sacramento, whereby God will come to His purpose.
We use everything God has given us to glorify Him and bring honor to His name.

Henny

1 Corinthians 12;Romans 12;Ephesians 4;1 Corinthians 12-14; - What are they?

List of some of the gifts by Chris Priebe, 2000-08-12

- Message of wisdom,

- Message of knowledge

- Faith

- healing

- miraculous powers

- prophecy

- distinguishing between spirits

- speaking in different tongues

- interpretation of tongues ( 1 Co 12:7-11)

- serving

- teaching

- encouraging

- contributing to needs of others

- leading

- showing mercy (Romans 12:3-8 )

cneff writes on 2002-06-25

Reading the list of Spiritual Gifts was a real breakthrough for me. For one thing, I didn¥t realize there were so many. Praise God! Another realization was that the Lord has given me several Spiritural Gifts. Although I am very new to this study group I can see the Lord has led me to the right place.

Romans 12:3-8; - List of some of the gifts

Knowing your gift - what excites you? by Chris Priebe, 2000-08-12

When I talk to people about this question I ask them "What really gets you excited when you do it? What do you love to do for God?" I was visiting one couple and the wife told me that she really enjoys helping sick people by making them meals and decorating their room. Her husband says he loves to use his hands to fix cars and help people out.

I worked with a lady who could hardly help herself but to encourage people. Every time I turned around she was saying something nice about someone or letting them know how much they are appreciated.

I have sat under some people who when they begin to teach something amazing happens and what they are saying makes total sense.

For me, I have a burden within me to preach. I have to. I have no choice. Like Jeremiah I say "his word is in my heart like a fire, a fire shut up in my bones. I am weary of holding it in; indeed, I cannot" (Jeremiah 10:9 ) If I see someone struggling in sin I am not only broken for them but compelled to help them and exhort them to leave it.

Jeremiah 10:9; - Knowing your gift - what excites you?

So then, what are you drawn to by Chris Priebe, 2000-08-12

I was reading a book today called "The Making of a Leader" by J. Robert Clinton. He has done a lot of work on gifts and two things he suggested was to look at what kind of leaders are you drawn to. When I was in Bible school I was really drawn to a passionate preacher named Mr. Block. When the guy spoke I wanted to be like him. Same with Ralph and Lou Sutera from Canadian Revival Fellowship. I was drawn to want to be like those who had a similar gifting as I do, that of exhorting towards repentance and godly living.

The other suggestion he gives is to look at what activities you are naturally drawn to accept. I was wondering if teaching was really one of my gifts then I looked at what I do hardly without thinking. Like making this web page, teaching Sunday School, organizing seminars and training workshops. Though I did not realize it I naturally lean very strongly towards not only accepting but making opportunities to teach.

userlw80 writes on 2002-07-04

I like humble, teaching leaders. These are the types of leaders who value what you have to say, and you don´t feel threatened if you do not agree with the leader and you can offer another to complete a task and the leader, nor you, are offended by the differences. I like leaders who uplift you and do not demean you so that you know that whatever you do has value.

Knowing your gift - where do you see God´s blessing? by Chris Priebe, 2000-08-12

Since spiritual gifts are a God thing we can suspect that if we look to see where God is moving in our life we will be able to find our gift. So for me, when I stand up a preach and people repent I can suspect that God is using me in this role and has gifted me in this line and I should keep doing it.

For others they will phone people and they will really be encouraged and they can see how God is using them in a ministry of encouragement.

For others they will see how God has given them the ability to give away money and they have seen how God has taken that money (in little or large amounts) and turned it into a blessing.

So the second question is, of the things you are excited about doing, what do you see God blessing?

futbolmamasita writes on 2001-07-22

In my novels, I show people getting saved, turning back to God, forgiving one anothe.etc...etc.. I see God´s blessing in his writing. It is His way of witnessing through me. I used to want to be a singer, but I felt that I wasn´t called to it anymore, so I told my mom, "I don´t want to sing anymore." Well, yesterday, I heard the song, ´I could sing of your love forever´ I prayed and God told me two things, "Keep singing for me, and also to send off a certain book first." Thank you, Father God.

Julia Harris writes on 2002-08-15

I think every Christian should KNOW what their gift is. So many Christians try to do a little of everything that they are never "good" at the one thing they need to be good at. If your gift is exhortation don¥t try to be a teacher, etc.
J. Harris

Angelo writes on 2003-03-29

Gods really been making it evident to me that my gift is in preaching. I never used to like talking in front of people, let alot talking about God in front of people. But lately God has really changed my heart on that and has given me a gift of preaching and already I¥m being forced to use it. I¥ve already preached once and am preaching a couple more times in diffrent night services (usally for the younger people 29 downwards) in the month to come and its been really amazing to see how God is working in my life and the things He´s speaking out through me. It´s really great and I can definitely see God working through that area of my life, even if I am only currently 15. Definitely goes to show that God can use anyone and their gifts no matter what at any age if they´re open and willing.

Knowing your gift - ask a friend by Chris Priebe, 2000-08-12

Sometimes it is really hard to determine what your gift is. This is because it is so natural to you that you do not know it is extra-ordinary. But if you were to ask your closest friends and spiritual leaders what they thought your gift was, or you suggested some ideas, they would be able to tell you if they see it as well.

Sometimes you will be surprised at the results. Last night I did the spiritual gifts test I suggest below and I came out really high on pastoring and exhortation. I understood how it could be exhortation, but pastoring? Sure I am a youth director and all but I really struggle in it. The person I was with last night said, "What are you nuts? Of course you are a pastor!" And she was right.

Knowing your gift - A spiritual gifts test by Chris Priebe, 2000-08-12

There is another helpful thing you can do to help determine your gifts and that is to take a test. Don´t worry this is one test which you can not fail :) All it does is it asks some questions that characterize what people with certain gifts are generally like. There are many different ones out there and I seem to get different results on all of them but they always have been helpful in understanding myself and offering some suggestions. From there I need to think it through and ask others if it is accurate. The following is one you can do over the Internet for free.

Click here to go to the test

SpiritualAdrenaline writes on 2001-06-27

This is a short test to define what your gift might be, but as I was taking It I found the questions themselves thought provoking. They led me to address some things about me and my spirituality.

Chris Priebe writes on 2001-07-22

I took the spititual gifts test that you suggested and really was enlightened. About 7 years ago i went to a two week seminar on spiritual gifts in which a test was given at the end and I enjoyed comparing the results.
I learned in the first class that yes, upon giving our lives to the lord we are given a gift in which we can use to glorify the lord, bless others and recieve joy from our accomplishments. As we grow, the lord continues to bless our lives with more of these gifts and it is his will that someday we will have all of the gifts of the spirit. Seven years ago it was clear that my original gift of the spirit was exortation. The test i took the other night showed that exortation was at the same level as the gift of showing mercy and the gift which showed itself most prominent was evangelism. How exciting this is for me to see the growth that i have achieved all through the gifts of God. Thank You brother Prieb for your faithful ministry. In you I see that you truly are the proud owner of so many of these gifts and in abundance.
Thank You for teaching,exhorting, pastoring,giving,showing mercy,and serving with your faithfulness.
Love In Christ,
Saved By Grace

ghoffmanpdx writes on 0000-00-00

I took the test and came in high on Pastoring, and then Exhortation and Administration tied for 2nd. Funny... I have been doing the pastoring and exhortation now for a few months, and didn¥t really realize that I was. Thanks.

deecee4jaycee writes on 2002-03-25

As I already knew I am highest in Pastor/Shepherd and Evangelism. It has always been my dream to teach and I enjoy doing it immensely...Youth are my passion and I am currently learning new ways to introduce the Youth at my place of employment to Jesus...Unlike what most people think they respond to friendliness and honesty even though I am decades older than them.

SueG writes on 2006-05-18

I took the test and I scored higher on mercy and teaching. I had just recently found out that I would be a good councilor and teacher because of my position at work. This helped to validate it. I want to be a Sunday School Teacher. I would love to work with the youth.

To be used in love by Chris Priebe, 2000-08-12

If I can only say one thing about gifts and ministry it would be this. Do it in love. Without love it is all absolutely worthless. I think Scripture says it best (as always) in what has been called the greatest writing on love ever written ( 1 Corinthians 13 ) Take a few minutes and read through it a few times. Follow this with prayer. God bless.

1 Corinthians 13; - To be used in love

© Authentic Walk Ministries, 2000-2013. Permission granted to reproduce as is for private study, Sunday School, Small Groups & Course lectures. Please request permission for all permanent public mediums such as magazines, books, and radio from me

Bibliographical Information: Priebe, Chris Ed. "Authentic Walk Ministries - Online Discipleship Course" <www.authenticwalk.com?Cat[]=414&> Archived at: 19 June 2013.