One of the most difficult tasks for church leadership is rallying its members to be excited about serving in the church. When the pastor preaches about servanthood and contributing to the needs of the body, Christians harmoniously nod their heads in agreement. However, members often look to the person next to them to step up, rather than courageously using their own gifts to advance the mission of God.

Paul writes in Romans 12:5-8 that we have different gifts “according to the grace given to us.” It is important to note that we all possess the ability to give back to the body of Christ because we all have gifts given by grace. Paul also mentions that “there are varieties of gifts, but the same spirit” showing that all gifts are given through the power of God’s spirit (1 Corinthians 12:4). These are powerful words and should renew our minds to the ways in which God has equipped us for His glory and honor.

We can find ourselves ready to serve and sacrifice by remembering the three “T’s” of time, talents, and treasures. God has given each of us these three “T’s” for the purpose of giving back to the body, open-handedly and sacrificially. 

Time

Our time is the easiest of the three “T’s” to use, but it is also the most coveted and difficult to give up. The most beautiful part of giving your time is that you are not just serving God’s people, but you are also serving God Himself. Matthew 25:40 highlights this best: “And the King will answer them, ‘Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me.’” There is great joy in giving our time, so may we give it generously to the church and her mission.

Talent

Our talent is the “T” that can be easiest to overlook. We all have talents, whether that be teaching, caring for babies, leading community, audio/visual skills, etc. Our talents are those skill sets with which God has gifted us, and we should be willing to use our talents in a way that “stir up one another to love and good works” (Hebrews 10:24).

Treasure

Lastly, the third “T” stands for our treasure. Matthew 6:21 says, “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” Our treasure should be rooted in Christ, and we should use our earthly treasures to further His kingdom and the church’s mission. Practically speaking, we should be giving financially, and giving generously. It is important to note that the value of our giving is not determined by the amount we give, but how we give. The church in Acts gave property and possessions to give to anyone who had need (Acts 2:45). A new church has need, not only of people’s time and talents, but also their treasures.

Most importantly, our time, talents, and treasures are to be used to bring glory and honor to God’s name and to proclaim the name of Jesus in such a way that we “let (our) light shine before others, so that they may see (our) good works and give glory to (our) Father who is in heaven” (Matthew 5:16).