Anything Worth Doing in Church

The problem with truisms is that they are generally only half true. Take "anything worth doing is worth doing well". Maybe you've considered that one as you've pondered how to give your time and talents to the church in 2008. Good. Everything we do should be done to the glory of God. But "anything worth doing is worth doing well" is really a half-truism. The other half might say "anything worth doing is worth doing poorly" and it would be just as true.

What I mean is this – when we become part of the body of Christ we make ourselves vulnerable. If I spend enough time with any group of people, I inevitably make an absolute idiot of myself.  Especially if I'm being honest about my sins and struggles and needs, and being honestly interested in the sins and struggles and needs of others. But that's what God calls me to do.

"God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble" (James 4:6). So be humble enough to do the things God calls you to do – even the ones in which your skills could use improving. 

Next Sunday, introduce yourself to a guest, even if you're a lousy conversationalist. Sing out during worship, even if you can't hold a note. Attend a small group and contribute to the discussion, even if it's your first time discussing the Bible since childhood Sunday School.

Yes, you'll fail horrendously sometimes. But after you fall on your face, fall on your knees, pray, and try again. Maybe the reason Christ washed his disciples feet is because they were always putting them into their mouths.

Anything worth doing is worth doing poorly – that God might give us the grace to do it well.