Vol. 5, No. 17 July 2, 2006

Privileged To Serve

Written By Christopher Mentzer

Toward the end of every month, when the announcements are made, a mention is given of Next Month’s “Roster” for the worship service. Barry would say, “The men are encouraged to check the list to see when they are privileged to serve.” The first time I heard that last phrase ‘privileged to serve’ it stuck in my mind. I thought to myself he’s right it should be a privilege to serve!

Some times when people are asked to lead prayer, songs, or even serve on the table, they get that annoyed looked on their face as if it’s a real chore to have to go all the way up front, say something, and then sit back down again. Others might give the excuse, “I did that last week, pick someone else”. What people sometimes overlook is that they are not serving the congregation but they are serving God. Paul wrote, “For he that herein serveth Christ is well-pleasing to God, and approved of men.” (Rom. 14: 18). Whether it’s leading songs, helping with the Lord’s Table, or greeting people in the foyer it all goes to God’s glory. Even when Jesus walked the earth, He was here to serve (Mk. 10: 45 NKJV).

There are times when people are called upon and they get nervous or tongue-tied. They never know what to say or they are afraid they won’t say the right thing. Moses attempted to use this as an excuse in Ex. 4: 10, “…Oh, Lord, I am not eloquent, neither heretofore, nor since thou hast spoken unto thy servant; for I am slow of speech, and of a slow tongue.” Did God accept this excuse? No He didn’t. Here’s His response in verses 11 and 12, “11. Who hath made man's mouth? Or who maketh `a man' dumb, or deaf, or seeing, or blind? Is it not I, Jehovah? 12. Now therefore go, and I will be with thy mouth, and teach thee what thou shalt speak.”

This doesn’t mean that God will provide you with the words from inspiration or even someone to speak on your behalf. Inside the pages of His Word are the words you can use for your prayers, or even suggestions in leading songs. Or, you can approach one of the brethren in the congregation for an idea of what to say.

One does not have to be perfect in speech to properly serve the Lord. Paul wrote in 1 Cor. 2:1, “And I, brethren, when I came unto you, came not with excellency of speech or of wisdom, proclaiming to you the testimony of God.” Although Paul’s words might have been simplistic and maybe not well formed, he did what he needed to do and that was preach the gospel. He probably led prayers and even a song or two.

When the opportunity presents itself, agree to help out! The best time to practice leading prayers or songs are Singing Nights and Midweek Services. The more you rehearse the better you’ll be and the more confidence you’ll have.