In Matthew 9, Jesus and his disciples stood in a defining moment. The mission of God is unfolding before them, and Jesus reveals a stunning reality—countless people are ready to receive the gospel. The harvest is abundant. The potential is overwhelming. Yet there’s a problem: there aren’t enough willing hands to gather the harvest.
“The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few.” – Matthew 9:37
This moment of urgency wasn’t just for them. It’s for us right now. The same call is echoing today. God is moving. The fields are ripe. The opportunity is now. But will we rise to the occasion?
Not long ago, I had a conversation with a young man hesitant about serving. He voiced the same concerns many of us feel—not enough time, not enough skills, not sure if he really mattered in God’s plan. But here’s what I told him, and here’s what I’ll tell you:
Serving isn’t just something we do—it’s who we are as followers of Christ.
If you’re on the fence about stepping into service, here are ten powerful reasons why it’s time to say yes.
1. Serving Follows the Example of Jesus
Jesus didn’t come to be served—He came to serve. He took the lowest position, carried the greatest burden, and gave his life for the world. To follow Jesus means to do what He did.
“For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many.” – Mark 10:45
2. Serving is the Overflow of Redemption
Salvation isn’t a spectator sport. You weren’t just saved from something—you were saved for something. Your life is now a part of God’s rescue mission.
“For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works.” – Ephesians 2:10
3. Serving Fuels Spiritual Growth
Want to grow in your faith? Serve. There’s something about stepping out in obedience that deepens your trust in God, refines your character, and reveals your purpose.
“Be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. And the things you have heard me say… entrust to reliable people who will also be qualified to teach others.” – 2 Timothy 2:1-2
4. Serving Builds the Family of God
Christianity isn’t a solo journey—it’s a family. And family members don’t just show up; they invest in each other.
“Let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.” – Galatians 6:10
5. Serving Unites and Strengthens the Church
Imagine the church as a puzzle—every piece matters. Without you, something is missing. You belong, and your role is vital.
“The Lord makes the whole body fit together perfectly… As each part does its own special work, it helps the other parts grow.” – Ephesians 4:16
6. Serving Turns Weakness into Strength
You don’t have to be perfect to serve—God uses ordinary people. Sometimes, the very place you feel weak is where He wants to reveal His strength.
“Strength is for service, not status.” – Romans 15:1 (MSG)
7. Serving Reveals Your God-Given Gifts
Not everyone is called to preach, but everyone has a gift. Maybe you’re great at organizing, encouraging, or simply making people feel welcome. Whatever it is, God gave it to you for a reason.
“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace.” – 1 Peter 4:10
8. Serving is Joining God’s Mission
God is at work. He is restoring, healing, and bringing people back to Himself—and He invites you to be part of it.
“As the Father has sent me, so I am sending you.” – John 20:21
“For we are co-workers in God’s service.” – 1 Corinthians 3:9
9. Serving is Love in Action
Spiritual maturity isn’t measured by how much you know—it’s measured by how much you love. And love moves us to action.
“Serve one another humbly in love.” – Galatians 5:13
10. Serving Glorifies God
In the end, serving isn’t just about people—it’s about Jesus. Every act of service is an offering of worship.
“Your faithful service is an offering to God.” – Philippians 2:17
The call is clear. The time is now. How will you answer to the call to serve? The Lord is waiting on your response.
Steve Gray and I wrote a new book that's being published through Chosen Books. Check it out here.
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