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b'\\u201cServing in the church? But I\\u2019m so busy! And I\\u2019m not good at socializing or memorizing Bible verses. I\\u2019ll do it when I\\u2019m older.\\xe2\\u20ac\\x9d\\nSometimes people think that, to serve in the church, you have to be a theology expert or an extrovert who loves to talk to strangers. We can forget that God created us to serve each other, and that, in Christ, we are the church\\u2014the Body of Christ. Service in the church is sharing Jesus\\u2019 love by encouraging and loving our siblings in Christ, as well as reaching out to those who don\\u2019t know Jesus. Therefore, all Christians, regardless of age or experience, are called to serve the church because they make up the church (Ephesians 1:22-23; 4:14-16).\\nThe good news? No matter what talents and skills you have, there is a place for you to serve. If you love to bake, volunteer to bring in a treat for a celebration or for a family going through a hard time. If you love music, join the church worship team or start a youth worship band. If you love graphic design, offer to create posters and bulletins. If you\\u2019re a photographer, take pictures for church events. If you love writing, write encouraging notes or cards for your church family. If you like to work with kids, volunteer to serve in the kids\\u2019 program.\\nPray about how God would have you use your talents and skills\\u2014as well as your spiritual gifts, which are special abilities the Holy Spirit gives to Christians to serve the church (1 Corinthians 14:12). Then, talk with your pastor, elders, deacons, or other people in leadership at your church about how you can plug in.\\nIn Christ, we are called to be the church. In Him, we have a family and a kingdom that can never be shaken (Hebrews 12:28). \\u2022 Abby Ciona\\n\\u2022 If you are a Christian, what spiritual gifts do you have? To dig into this subject, start with Romans 12:1-8, 1 Corinthians 12\\xe2\\u20ac\\u201c14, and Ephesians 4:1-16. \\n\\u2022 Who are trusted Christians in your life\\u2014such as pastors, youth leaders, or counselors\\u2014who can help you discern what gifts the Holy Spirit has given you? \\n\\u2022 What are some ways you can begin, or continue, to serve in the church? \\nEach of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God\\u2019s grace in its various forms. 1 Peter 4:10 (NIV)\\n\\xa0\\nRead Verses:\\nRomans 12:3-8; Galatians 6:9-10'