Q: How do we know if we are ready to serve in church?

A: There are several types of organized service in church, and each requires its own preparation. That’s why 

you always need the guidance and blessing of your father of confession before you begin any service. He will help you to choose the right time and the right service. 

We may never feel that we are “qualified” or “ready” to start serving in church, but service is a call from God, and He will support the service with His grace. What you need to do is approach service with the right spirit, and know that your service cannot be fruitful without the work of the Holy Spirit. Therefore, strive to continue growing in your spiritual life so that the Holy Spirit can use you. 

When our Lord said, “Come, you blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world: for I was hungry and you gave Me food; I was thirsty and you gave Me drink; I was a stranger and you took Me in; I was naked and you clothed Me; I was sick and you visited Me; I was in prison and you came to Me.” (Matthew 25:34 – 36), he taught us a significant message about service, and that is, when we serve we are serving God Himself. And if you wish to serve God, there are so many things you can do. All around you, there are many opportunities for you to serve Him. So if you are not able to join an organized service in church just yet, don’t think that you can’t serve God. You can serve Him as much as you want, in the way you treat others. You can be an example for others and this is a great service. And God will use you even if you don’t realize it. Just remember that He is the one you are serving.