I love working with young people. I love seeing their child-like faith and willingness to know God more. I love seeing them accept the grace and love of God and confess that He is what they have been looking for. But when I ask them to step up and serve God, a sense of hesitancy permeates the air and the excuses start flooding in.
The young people aren't alone though. Every Christian battles with the same sense of inadequacy in regards to serving God.
In my sphere of ministry, below are the top six reasons why people don't serve God and helpful truths to encourage all believers to get up and be an active servant of God.
I don't know enough
The reality is that no one will ever "know" enough. The beauty of God and His Word is that they are both eternal. This means that you will never fully understand God.
Do your part in personal study and preparation but don't be surprised when you feel that you haven't prepared enough. Every pastor will tell you that they feel like this before every teaching opportunity.
Trust God that what you have studied, He will use to bless and encourage others.
I like my sin
Though this excuse is rarely verbalized, many people are comfortable with their sin issues.
Christian, understand that sin will always lead to death. Confess, repent, get accountability, and start being about God's business.
I'm scared
It's natural to be afraid. In fact, most of the famous hero's in the Bible were afraid.
Don't let your fear hinder your faith. Take some time to be still before the Lord in honest prayer and remind yourself of the greatness of Jesus. Seeing Him clearly will silence your fears and help you move forward in the midst of fear.
I'm not worthy
I get it; you're a sinner just like me. If you feel that you're unfit to serve God you join the ranks of many. This is a good place to be but a horrible place to remain.
The truth is that we are all unfit to serve God. BUT, because of Jesus, and His imputed righteousness in our lives, we become sufficient ministers of the gospel. (See 2 Corinthians chapter 3 verses 4-5)
I like my personal comfort
Yes, it's true that God's ways aren't always our ways. This means that God will sometimes move us outside of our comfort zone.
This is a good thing. When we step out of our comfort into God's plan, you'll find greater comfort, joy, and peace in walking in His will.
I'm too young
See 1 Timothy chapter 4 verse 12. Enough said.
Friends, the time to serve God is now. I plead with you not to let your excuses stop you from seeing God work miracles on your behalf.
If you identify with any of the above excuses, that's okay. Bring them to the Lord, and allow Him to speak His promises to you. God is sufficient for all your needs. Will you let Him be?
Aaron serves in Murrieta, CA and is a pastor at Cross Culture Ministries and is also the director of On The Edge.
Aaron Sabio's previous articles may be viewed at http://www.pressserviceinternational.org/aaron-sabio.html