Very few of those talents mentioned in the first paragraph were attained in a short period of time. Song leaders, even those who are gifted spend time learning, practicing and leading. Even fewer speakers are able to speak without hours of practice, study and prayer. Women who serve, have spent hours learning to communicate and assess what is needed in a given situation. So, how do you develop YOUR full potential in Gods service?

1. Have a desire to serve the Lord by serving His body.
2. Learn how to do anything you can that can be used for good.
3. Look for opportunities to practice your skills.
4. Pray for opportunities to serve.

First set your priorities in order. Understand that the way we serve God is by serving others and only what is done for God will last. Train yourself to desire to help others learn about Jesus sacrifice and His plan for eternal life. Learn to know and love the members of the body so well, that you recognize ways of being helpful.

Learn everything you can. Read your Bible regularly. Listen and discuss sermon ideas. Even reading and writing can be used for helping those who cannot. Young women and men have vast opportunities to learn today. Most communities have adult education where you may learn new skills. You may take music lessons to learn the mechanics of music. You may take a foreign language that may lead you to other countries or to translate for newcomers who don't speak English. Learn about finances, relationships, communication. There are bulletins to write, events to organize, meals to be cooked and delivered and the lonely and ill to be visited. Learn to garden so you can share food. Learn to do the communion bread. Learn about art techniques so you can help with crafts for children's classes. Learn all the computer skills you can. The list is endless.

Even those who work at their chosen fields will find things to learn that can be used in service to God. In-services and seminars often teach skills that can be used in the Body.

However, let Christ remain your passion – don’t let an interest in secular things lead to time consuming involvement that interferes with your desire to love and serve the Lord.

Always be on the look-out for opportunities. Let your congregational leaders know where you would like to contribute. Look at the prayer list and see what needs you might be able to meet. Your goal is to develop to maximum potential your service to God and to serve as many of the body as possible.

So, if you can’t be a Paul, ... be an Apollos or Dorcas!