Devotional Time with God

What is holding me back from accepting God’s call to serve him?

The Purpose Driven Life, p. 233

Lately I’ve been short with my time and confused on how I can fit into the church’s many ministries. I have a full time job, tasks at home to help raise my daughter, and help my wife. Plus I have not found a ministry at church that would take my abilities. I am good at handling systems, troubleshooting computers, and maintaining web services. Currently, Saddleback hires professional help to maintain all of their web needs. It is a matter of time before I can find a place for me, and for my family too.

Meanwhile, I will be scheduling a Class 301 to determine my S.H.A.P.E. This is necessary for me to determine where I fit in the church. But first I must do my Class 201.

The PDL book mentions that God will be angered and remove my eternal rewards if I do not serve, as mentioned in Romans 2:8. However in reading the entire verse, I believe Pastor Rick might be simplifying this a little because it says:

But he will pour out his anger and wrath on those who live for themselves, who refuse to obey the truth and instead live lives of wickedness.

I read the entire passage, God says He will be angered if I refuse to heed God’s word, refuse to serve, and live a wicked life. The whole chapter is a warning for the Jews to obey the law and not do evil (ie. break the 10 commandments). In conclusion, even though I must serve, I do not believe God will be angered by this. God will be disappointed. I’m sure He will find a way for me to realize this and serve Him and His people.

Does my level of involvement in my local church demonstrate that I love and am committed to God’s family?

The Purpose Driven Life, p. 137

Saddleback Church is huge. I mean BIG. There are over 30,000 people in attendance, many small groups to choose from, and many ministries to participate in. Sometimes it is difficult to fit in a church that size. Fortunately, it’s a church that encourages spiritual growth. I may not know everyone, but I am getting to know a few already. Jeff and Katie are the current host of the small group that we attend. Previously, we’ve known several others.

I have to become more active in the church. We’ve already attended Class 101 and must now take it to the next steps (201, 301, etc.) It is my goal to use my God-given talent for the church to use. I have a life time to establish this, but I’m praying that it will be sooner. I am putting in time, talent, and treasure for God’s work through the church.

You see, we don’t go around preaching about ourselves. We preach that Jesus Christ is Lord, and we ourselves are your servants for Jesus’ sake.

2 Corinthians 4:5 (NLT)