better together

by Eddie Moody, Executive Secretary, National Association of Free Will Baptists

They Need You!

The people we care about most (children, parents, spouse, friends, co-workers, church) desperately need us to be the people God has called us to be. Jesus called us (John 17:18) to be His ambassadors (2 Corinthians 5:18-20) to those who do not know Him and burden-bearers (Galatians 6:2) to those who do. But what do they need from you?

Be You. God specially made you (Job 10:8a; Psalm 139:14-16) to fulfill the various tasks He has given you. We can be tempted to complain about our limitations, but God has provided us with what we need to fulfill His purpose (Matthew 25:24-27; Romans 9:20-21). So, rather than envying others, let’s explore our uniqueness and prepare for ministry.

Preparation. Paul compared the Christian life to the runner who disciplines himself for a race. The runner builds up stamina and is careful about the food he eats, so he will not be disqualified (1 Corinthians 9:24-27). What kind of preparation do we need?

We must build our spiritual stamina. Daniel was able to withstand the crowd and keep from defiling himself (Daniel 1:8), likely because he had studied passages like Leviticus 11. He knew about and prepared to avoid that which would result in defilement. Early in life, Moses decided to identify with God and His people rather than enjoy the pleasures of Egypt (Hebrews 11:25). If we are not prepared spiritually, we too will succumb to the culture around us and be unable to help others.

Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah were “skillful in all wisdom, and cunning in knowledge, and understanding science” (Daniel 1:4) when they found themselves in Babylon. Similarly, Moses was prepared as a child to deliver his people from oppression (Acts 7:22). What are the unique opportunities and learning experiences for you? In His sovereignty, God is preparing you to minister.

Utilization. Every Christian has been given at least one spiritual gift (1 Corinthians 7:7; 1 Peter 4:10). Have you identified yours? How are you using your gifts and developing them? The writer of Hebrews warned his readers it was time for them to begin using what God had given them (Hebrews 5:12-13). One of the reasons the American church is so weak today is because of underutilization of spiritual gifts. When we fail to use our gifts, the whole body suffers, like a body with only one ear, one eye, or one foot (1 Corinthians 12:14-17). Let us identify and use our gifts.

Also, realize there are a variety of gifts. God has prepared people for diverse activities and ministries for the profit of all (1 Corinthians 12:4-7). Have you noticed an area in your church or community that needs to be addressed? Chances are you have been gifted in that area. Study passages like Romans 12:1-8 and 1 Corinthians 12 and to learn all you can about the gifts God has given you (1 Corinthians 12:1). Whatever we do, we want to do it well (Colossians 3:23-24).

The Right Attitude. We can do a great deal, but without love as the motivation, it is for nothing (1 Corinthians 13:2). Becoming territorial, with a “my way or the highway” attitude, or “I am the only one who can do this” robs us of using everyone’s gifts. We want to continuously undergo the 1 Corinthians 13 test, asking if love is the foundation of what we do.

We have a tall task before us. We will be held accountable for the way we use our gifts (Romans 14:12). The way we use or don’t use those gifts impacts those around us (1 Corinthians 12:7). So, please, if you are a church leader, prepare those in your care to be the people God intended (Ephesians 4:11-14). Let each one of us faithfully be the person God intended. Others need you to be you and not someone else (Ephesians 2:10).


About the columnist. Better Together is a regular feature of ONE Magazine. Written by Eddie Moody, executive secretary of the National Association of Free Will Baptists, the column explores life and ministry. Have a suggested topic or question? Contact Eddie: emoody@nafwb.org.