Using Your Gifts to Build the Church

I have a small parenting confession: our family is not really into team sports. I was on a few teams as a kid, but my favourite sports and activities have always been more individual: swimming, skiing, biking type of thing. My husband is largely the same, and I think that has contributed a lot to us just not prioritizing getting our kids into teams. We know the benefits, and of course we have felt some sense of conviction that we’re not doing the best for them at times.  

Since our kids joined a music school where they get to be a part of an orchestra everything changed. For months we took them for lessons in their individual instruments, music theory and choir practices. The first performance was wonderful, and as the orchestra played together for the Grand Finale I burst into tears. I was so moved by how wonderful it was to see them be a part of a musical ‘team’ that worked together to create something so fun & beautiful.  

One of my favourite things about church is that it’s never meant to be a “spectator sport.” God designed the church to be a living, breathing body where each of us has a part to play. When everyone shows up with their gifts the church becomes a place full of life, joy, and purpose. But sometimes it’s hard to know what you bring to the table. You might think, “I’m not the teaching type,” or “I’m not creative,” or “I’m too quiet to be of much help.” But the beautiful thing about the church is that God wired each of us differently on purpose. There is no extra or unnecessary part in the body of Christ. 

“Yes, there are many parts, but only one body. The eye can never say to the hand, ‘I don’t need you.’ The head can’t say to the feet, ‘I don’t need you.’”  —1 Corinthians 12:20-21 

Paul reminds us here that we are all like parts of a body, each one necessary. The eye can’t say to the hand, “I don’t need you,” nor should we entertain the thought that we’re not needed. You are needed. So how do we start using our gifts?  

Recognize That God Has Gifted You

The first step is simply believing this truth: God has given you gifts.  

“We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us.” —Romans 12:6  

That means you have something unique to offer the church family, something no one else can offer in quite the same way. It might be obvious, like singing, teaching, or leading. Or it might be quieter, like encouragement, prayer, hospitality, generosity, or a knack for organizing things. 

Not sure what your gifts are? We have the perfect place for you to find out! Every month, we get together and go through the Connect Course, a four-week experience that’s designed to help you grow in your relationship with God, learn about your God-given gifts, and become a member of Coastal Church. While you’re in connect course, ask God to show you. Pay attention to what brings you joy and what others affirm in you. Do you love making people feel welcome? Do you get excited about planning events? Do you notice when someone’s discouraged and find yourself reaching out? These are clues to how God might be nudging you to serve.  

Be Willing to Jump In

Once you have a sense of what your gifts might be, the next step is simple: start using them. That might sound scary, but you don’t have to have it all figured out before you begin. Sometimes the best way to discover your gifts is to say “yes” where there’s a need. Jesus washed His disciples’ feet to show us that true greatness in God’s kingdom looks like serving (John 13:14–15). You don’t have to wait for the perfect opportunity—just start where you are. 

Maybe someone needs a ride to church, or a meal delivered. Maybe there’s a spot open on the worship team, the tech booth, or the hospitality team. Even if it’s not your long-term calling or exactly what you think your gifting is, stepping in where you’re needed blesses others and helps you grow. 

Trust God to Grow Your Gifts

You don’t have to be perfect before you start using your gifts. Growth happens through practice. Paul encouraged Timothy not to neglect his gift but to keep fanning it into flame. That’s a good word for us too. If you have the gift of teaching, your first lesson might feel awkward—but that’s how we grow. If you have the gift of encouragement, start with one person this week. The same Spirit who raised Jesus from the dead is at work in you (Ephesians 1:19–20). That means you can serve with courage and confidence, knowing that God Himself will strengthen you as you step out in faith. 

You don’t have to wait for the perfect time or perfect role. Just take the next step, however small. Write that note of encouragement. Sign up to volunteer once a month. Offer to help where you see a need. Because here’s the truth: you matter to the body of Christ. Your gifts matter. And when you show up, the whole church is stronger.