Do you serve in church? Statistics suggest that about 80% of Christians who read this will likely answer, “No.”

Some pastors have noticed that roughly 20% of their church’s congregation performs about 80% of the workload. Some congregations even find themselves pleading for volunteers to step in and help.

Serving at church is an important part of growing in our relationship with Jesus. When we offer our time and talents, we help the church function more smoothly and effectively. As a result, more people can be reached with the gospel through a congregation that is well organized and presents Christ in a faithful and excellent manner.

Serving also allows us to meet the practical needs of those within the congregation, including caring for the elderly, single parents, and others who may need help and support.

The first step in finding a place to serve at church is prayer. Ask the Lord to give you direction on where to serve.

Next, consider what you enjoy doing and what you’re talented at. What are you already doing well? For example, if you play the guitar proficiently, that may be the first area to explore. Does your church need a guitarist?

However, don’t limit yourself only to the obvious roles. There is always a need for the less visible but equally important areas of service. For example, if you’re good with computers, remember that most churches have no IT department, let alone anyone who can even diagnose a basic computer problem. Most pastors are not well-versed in web design, so even someone with basic WordPress or HTML knowledge can make a significant contribution.

Perhaps you’re good with tools and something of a handyman; there are likely elderly widows in the congregation who could use help at home with simple repairs. Maybe you enjoy photography and could capture special events for the church newsletter. Or maybe you’re great with kids and could assist in the Sunday school.

There are countless opportunities, both obvious and behind the scenes, where your talents, knowledge, and resources can be used to serve in the church. When you step into those roles, you help your church share the good news of the gospel with the community and support those who are less fortunate.