When you're asked to serve at church

1 Peter 4:9-11

Be hospitable to one another without grumbling. 10 As each one has received a gift, minister it to one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God. 11 If anyone speaks, let him speak as the oracles of God. If anyone ministers, let him do it as with the ability which God supplies, that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom belong the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen.

a. Getting involved like this is generally spiritually healthy for you.  

As 1 Corinthians 12 says, each member does his unique part helping the body of Christ function.  If we come to church just to be served and never serve ourselves, something is out of whack.  (I don't say this because I've seen a lot of slackers in our midst, though.)  Parents ask their children to help around the house, because that is good for them.  It's roughly analogous when church leaders ask members to help in the family of God.  As church leaders, we're setting a direction and a goal, and saying, "This is a good thing for us to do - come join us."

b. Don't feel guilted or pressured into serving.

By asking here, we are not intending to pressure you in any way.  We realize some folks have circumstances that prohibit helping in these ways.  We believe we're calling you to do some good things here, but there are always many good things that need to give way to more important ones in your responsibilities. When we ask, we are not intending to violate family boundaries that you know best.  Whether it's a family schedule, or little ones that need more care, or distance, it's reasonable to say, "We can't this time."  No one's looking down on those who don't show for this kind of thing!

c. Do seek to make it work!  Some have a sensitive conscience and will feel guilted into serving.  Others will use the last point with a callous conscience to quickly and always say, "We can't.  (Ever.)"  Maybe there's an adjustment you can make that would make it work?  Again, we're asking you to consider it, but trust you to know whether you can or not.

d. Know your gifts.

If you're an extreme introvert, manning the outreach table might not be your thing.  If you've got a decent singing voice (or if you're tone-deaf), give more thought (less!) to the choir!  What God may be calling you to do depends partly on your abilities, besides your other responsibilities and opportunities.