Making an Investment for Eternity

            As we go through life, it is easy to fall into a routine. Each day, each week, each month seem to follow the same pattern. From time to time, it is important to stop and reflect upon what we are doing with our lives. We should ask ourselves some important questions. What am I doing in my life right now that will outlive me? What am I doing that will make a difference both in the present and in the future? What am I doing right now that has the potential to affect eternity?

            Bill Hybels, in his book “Living Beyond Myself,” makes the case that when we invest our time, talents, and energy in the Kingdom of God, we are making a difference for all of eternity. Hybels believes that volunteering to serve others through the church or other organizations is the most exciting and rewarding thing that we can do with our lives. Do you believe him?

            There is an old army adage that says, “Never volunteer.” Most of us have taken that concept to heart. We do not routinely see volunteering as something positive or rewarding. Instead, we see it as a burden, an imposition, or an obligation. When we do serve, we do it with clenched teeth and an eye on the clock.

            I may be painting just a little too bleak of a picture. There are indeed times when we willingly serve. There are times when we even feel a sense of fulfillment from serving. But, too often, our volunteer experience falls short of Bill Hybels’ glowing recommendation. So how can we change serving from an obligation to a joy? Let me suggest a few tips for a better experience.

           

Find your fit. One of the most important things about having a positive volunteer experience is finding the right place to serve. We are often disappointed because we invest our energy into something we are not good at, or do not enjoy. God has given each of us certain talents and passions. When we are able to use our talents in the area of our passion, then we experience the joy and excitement of service. The best way to discover our fit is to experiment. Try serving in a few different areas for a short time, and see what resonates with you. Then really jump in. 

           

Be realistic. Many people, when they embrace God’s call to serve, go overboard. They start volunteering for everything and soon they burn out. There is nothing wrong with their passion or their gifts. They are just trying to do too much. When you embark on this adventure called serving, start slow. Resist the temptation to take on too much. Be realistic about how much time you have to invest, how much energy you have to invest, and how much responsibility you are able to carry. It is far better to serve well in one area of ministry than poorly in several.

Stretch a little. Most of us are a little timid to try new things. We like things that are safe and predictable. If we really want to experience the thrill of serving God we need to be willing to stretch. Let God push you beyond your comfort level. Explore areas of ministry that you would have never considered. You may discover that God has blessed you with more talent than you realize.

Encourage others who are serving. This may sound like an odd statement. After all, we are looking at finding our place of service. Yet, one of the ways that God has designed for us to find joy and fulfillment in service is by recognizing the efforts of others. Encouraging others as they serve supports them, enhances their experience, and opens our eyes to all that God is doing. When we start looking for ways to encourage others, we discover a whole new, positive world of service. In fact, the act of encouraging others is a spiritual act of service.

Keep your perspective. If we are going to find joy and fulfillment in service, we need to keep our eyes on Jesus. We are serving Him and He is the one who will reward us. Paul reminds us that it does not matter so much what we are doing, but our attitude is while we are doing it.

            Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving. Colossians 3:23-24

            Even if others do not notice our service, God does. In fact, service done in secret is especially sweet to God. Jesus made this very point in the Sermon on the Mount.

            "Be careful not to do your 'acts of righteousness' before men, to be seen by them. If you do, you will have no reward from your Father in heaven.

            "So when you give to the needy, do not announce it with trumpets, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and on the streets, to be honored by men. I tell you the truth, they have received their reward in full. But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your giving may be in secret. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.” Matthew 6:1-4

            There are many ways that we can invest our lives for eternity. Some of these are in formal, well proscribed roles and some of these are informal and spontaneous. God has equipped each of us to play a significant role in His kingdom. As we discover more about the gifts, talents and passions that God has given us, we will find joy in using them for His glory.

    And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.

Colossians 3:17