A spirit of helpfulness on the part of individual Christians contributes enormously to the work of a local congregation. When brothers and sisters in the Lord are motivated by a genuine desire to be useful and to give assistance, work is done which would not otherwise be done and it is done with a positive, hopeful enthusiasm.
On the other hand, when Christians lack the desire to be truly useful, they tend to complain and criticize, rather than work. The atmosphere becomes negative, and dissatisfaction and unhappiness set in.
Preachers and especially elders appreciate those who make a habit of being helpful. Teaching, preaching, and leading become real joys among those who are eager to aid a congregation’s work in every way they can.
A man named Rober Babson has said, “If things are not going well with you, begin your effort at correcting the situation by carefully examining the service you are rendering, and especially the spirit in which you are rendering it.” It is true that much of our unhappiness stems from our lack of helpfulness to others. Those who constantly make themselves of assistance to those around them are usually at peace with themselves and with their situation.
All of us have opportunities to be helpful. But not all have made the preparation necessary to be useful. Not all are sensitive and mature enough to know how best to help. Not all are ready to make the sacrifices of time, effort, and energy required to help. Are you?
Gary Henry — WordPoints.com + AreYouaChristian.com
