The Gift of Helps

“Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, let us use them…” – Romans 12:7

When Scripture speaks of ministry, it isn’t describing a stage, a microphone, or a title—it’s describing the beautiful, practical gift of helps found in 1 Corinthians 12:28. The word comes from the same root as deacon, meaning one who serves. Ministry is everything from lifting burdens to meeting needs, from encouraging hearts to strengthening the weak. Paul paints this picture vividly in Acts 20:32–36, reminding the church that he worked with his own hands, supported others, and lived by the words of Jesus: “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” Service wasn’t a task to Paul—it was a posture shaped by the grace of God.

Jesus took this idea even further. In Matthew 25, He taught that serving others is serving Him directly. Feeding the hungry, comforting the lonely, helping the hurting—these are not small acts. They are ministry to the King Himself. And Scripture adds another layer with the word doulos—a bondslave, someone set free who chooses to serve out of love. That is the heart of ministry: not obligation, but devotion. Not duty, but delight. Ministry is not reserved for pastors or leaders. Ephesians 4:12 tells us the pastor’s role is to equip the saints for the work of ministry. Every believer is called, gifted, and empowered by the Holy Spirit to serve in unique ways. This means ministry is far broader than we often imagine. It includes every act of love, every moment of support, every unseen sacrifice.

The Holy Spirit has given each of us a unique blend of gifts—not mass‑produced, not identical, but handcrafted for the good of the body. When we embrace this calling, the church becomes strong, healthy, and united. Ministry is not something a few people do—it’s something every believer is called to live. You have been gifted by the Holy Spirit to serve others in ways no one else can. Follow the example of Jesus. Follow the humility of Paul. Serve with joy, with love, and with the confidence that every act of service is seen by God and used by God. Step into your calling as a minister, and let Christ shine through your willingness to serve.

“The highest glory of the Christian life is to take the place of a servant, even as Jesus did.” – Andrew Murray