Colossians 3:23 “And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men.”
The church is not a building; it is a body. And every part of the body is vital. God has no unnecessary members, and no one is called to merely sit and watch. A proactive Pentecostal understands that the church is not an audience to be entertained, but an army to be equipped. The call is not to be passive pew-sitters, but Spirit-filled participants, laboring for the Lord, not for recognition or applause, but out of love for Christ and devotion to His kingdom.
Imagine a man who buys a beautiful tool chest filled with everything needed to build a strong house. He places it in his garage, shines the outside regularly, and shows it to his neighbors. But week after week, year after year, he never uses a single tool. He admires them, but he never builds anything. What good are the tools if they are never put to use?
So, it is in the church when we fail to engage. God has placed gifts, callings, and spiritual tools in the lives of His people, not to be admired, but to be applied. Every believer has a part to play. Some are called to preach, others to pray. Some are called to lead worship, others to clean the sanctuary. All are called to serve. But it must be done “heartily, as to the Lord.”
This verse from Colossians reminds us that our motivation in ministry matters. We are not to serve just to please people or avoid guilt. We are to work for the Lord with energy, passion, and excellence. Whether we teach a class or hold a door open, we must do it with our whole heart. It’s not about the size of the role; it’s about the sincerity of the servant.
Sadly, many churches struggle because too few are doing too much, and too many are doing too little. The enemy delights in discouraging pastors, burning out leaders, and convincing believers that they’re not needed. But the proactive Pentecostal pushes back against that lie. They step in. They take ownership. They show up, not waiting to be asked, but offering themselves as living sacrifices.
When every part of the church body does its part, the whole church flourishes. Needs are met. Visitors feel welcome. Children are taught. The gospel goes forth. And the Spirit has freedom to move. There is no greater joy than knowing you’ve contributed to the growth and health of God’s house.
The early church in Acts grew rapidly, not just because of powerful preaching, but because “every man” continued “daily with one accord…breaking bread…with gladness and singleness of heart” (Acts 2:46). It was a community committed to Christ and to one another. That same spirit must be rekindled today. And it starts with you.
Application
Consider how you’re currently contributing to the life of your local church. Are you serving where you’re needed? Are you offering your time, talents, and treasures wholeheartedly to the Lord? Ask God to show you where He wants you to be active. Then commit to serve – not with reluctance, but with joy. Start where you are. Be faithful. Be fruitful.
Reflection
- Am I waiting to be asked or stepping up to serve in my church?
- Do I serve “heartily” and consistently, or out of obligation and habit?
- How would my church change if everyone served the way I do?
Prayer
Lord, thank You for placing me in the body of Christ. Forgive me for any laziness, pride, or fear that has kept me from fully serving You in the church. I surrender my gifts, my hands, and my heart to Your service. Help me to see where I am needed and to serve with gladness and zeal. Let me do everything for Your glory, with excellence and humility. May my contribution help strengthen my church, bless others, and honor Your name. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
