Imagine Tabitha (Dorcas) as a young lady first learning to sew.  She would have learned various stitches and how to work with different materials.  She would have trained in measuring and cutting. Knowing something of her character, maybe she saw those in her town in need of clothing and desired to one day help them.  Perhaps she had a natural talent towards sewing, but it still would have taken much practice to perfect her craft.  Having no idea how God would use her, she was sharpening her skills in something useful.

When David killed Goliath it was likely not his first time to pick up a stone and a sling. Not discounting God’s power in this instance, but as a shepherd, David had probably spent countless hours of target practice on trees or varmints; perhaps envisioning himself as a solider in the Israelite army.  Maybe his practice taught him that smooth stones fly through the air better than rough ones.  Not knowing how God would use him, David was sharpening his skills in something useful.

Do you have aspirations for ways you’d like to serve in the kingdom?  There is a reason why individuals and congregations set goals.  If we don’t have a vision for what we’d like to achieve we’re going to remain in whatever rut we’re in.  Where do you see yourself in five or ten years?  Certainly we all have various physical skillsets in which we excel, but we could all be more useful if we were better equipped with these attributes:

1. Compassion

Study through the life of Jesus in the gospel accounts taking special note of how He interacted with people. What was his reaction to the sick and hurting?  How did He respond when yet another person wanted His attention?

2. Listening

According to James 1:19, being “quick to hear” ought to describe each Christian. Long before James, the Proverbs writer had much to say about the wisdom of being a good listener.  Study through the book and create a list of them.  Here are some to get started: Proverbs 2:2, 18:2, 18:13, 20:12.

2. Selflessness

How often do we get ourselves into trouble by holding on too tightly (or perhaps voicing too loudly) to things that really are matters of opinion. Read and meditate on Philippians 2.  Unity and humility go hand in hand.   When we remember to put ourselves aside, we are sure to do more good than harm!

3. Endurance  

Another beneficial study of our Lord is to read through the hours leading up to the crucifixion. Make note of the participles (-ing words) and other verbs that precede the word “Him”:  Mocking Him, Blaspheming Him, Beat Him.  Surely the things that we endure are light in comparison (see Heb. 12:3-4). Perhaps you will get a second wind as you journey on serving in the kingdom (Heb. 12:12-13).

4. Bible Knowledge

Are you growing as a Christian ought (II Pet. 1:5-8, 3:18)? Ultimately, regardless of the ways we individually serve, we must all get our heads in The Book.  After all, it is the word of God that fully equips us for every good work (II Tim. 3:16-17).

It is impossible to know how the Lord will use us in the future.  We just know that He is able, especially when we are willing.  How are you sharpening your skills for service now and for wonderful ways unseen?  Get Involved.  Equip yourself!

CLICK HERE to read part 1 of this series!

Kathryn Baker

Kathryn is married to Andy Baker who preaches for the Maud church of Christ in Maud, TX. She stays at home with their 3 children. In her spare time, she enjoys food (both cooking and eating!), gardening, and taking their Boston terrier for walks.