4 Ways to Make Passion Their Reason for Serving

This month, we’ll be hearing from some of our favorite guest bloggers. First on the agenda is Jeremy Amick. Jeremy serves as Associate Pastor of Discipleship and Outreach in North Carolina and blogs at spiritledconnecting.com. He will also be presenting at the upcoming Equipping Institute, November 12-14 in Knoxville, TN.

 Today, people are not moved by a commitment to the community, as many were fifty years ago.  My generation has seen too many commitments fail.  Instead, they are motivated by compassion for a cause. People have to see that their volunteer work will make a tangible and substantial difference in the world.

Recently, I spoke with a number of leaders from growing, dynamic church ministries. There is a word that continues to be used in these conversations: passion. Churches that are involving large percentages of members in ministry seem to have an ability to tap into, or even ignite, a deep passion for a particular ministry.

Passion is the product of the Holy Spirit’s work in a person’s life. When a person is using his or her spiritual gifts to edify the Body of Christ and bring glory to God, there is a joy that only God can supply. When people fail to possess any passion for their service, church leaders must take notice and counsel with these members regarding their commitment.

How can we foster passion-led service?

1. Throw away the commitment cards. Help members discover their “perfect fit” through the principles I call “Spirit-led Connecting.”

2. Get personal. Spend enough time with the members of your congregation to know who has what strengths and how God is working in their lives. No more “cold calls” for ministry placement.

3. Talk about passion. Help people see how God ignited your passion and model this as a leader.

4. Help people see the positive life-changing results of their ministry. Passion for ministry is fueled by Christ-honoring results.

What other ideas can you add to the mix? How are you encouraging people to serve from their passions?