Manna 73 Editorial

T. Chen

“As each one has received a gift, minister it to one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.” (1 Pet 4:10)

What is your gift?

Some of us can answer this question immediately. Few may not be so sure. Others may even say they do not have any talents.

In fact, all of us have gifts or skills that we employ for our own benefit—be it in our studies, at work or simply for our own enjoyment. But when it comes to offering our gift for the Lord’s use, hesitation sets in. I recall an instance where an elderly brother told me, “What can an old man like me do? I don’t wish to be bothered. Just let the young people work.” But what do the young say? “I’m too busy” or “I don’t think I’m suitable. I’m sure there are more talented and experienced people who can do the job.”
But is it really true that only the young and strong, the smart and skillful, or the experienced among us can serve God?

In fact, serving God is fundamental to every Christian’s life of faith. Just as food is essential to sustain our physical life, serving God is an integral part of our spiritual life. Hence, serving God is something that everyone can and must do. Faith and service complement each other, for in serving God, we experience Him and this, in turn, strengthens our faith. When God created Adam, He had a purpose for man: to tend the Garden of Eden. This shows that we were created to work, not for ourselves, but for God. Our purpose in life is to serve the Lord.

Even Jesus Christ came into this world in the form of a bondservant, setting the most excellent example of lifelong service. His ministry culminated in His sacrifice on the cross for the sins of humanity. Through His death, we have received the hope of eternal life. Shouldn’t we repay such great love in return? But what can we do? What can we offer?

“I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service.” (Rom 12:1)

In fact, the best gift that we can offer to God is ourselves—our time and our energy. We can devote these to the work of God, be it serving within the church, preaching the gospel to our friends and relatives, or helping those in need. Our church attendance to worship God, and our intercessory prayers for our brethren are also forms of service. In short, there is work for every child of God, for He wants us to share in His work and ultimately, in His glory.

Therefore, we must prepare ourselves to serve God by removing our self-centered concerns. Be willing to heed the Spirit’s voice and cultivate a godly disposition. Stay in constant touch with God through His Spirit and His word. Reflect upon what we can do for God—it does not matter how small or insignificant the task, as long as we sanctify ourselves and have the heart to serve Him, He will accept our service.