Definition
We are of course all called to be servants as servanthood is a Christ-like quality. However, people with this gift have special grace to invest their time, talents and treasures into the lives of others. They are people who feel fulfilled by being the arms and legs of the ministry…they are the engine room! They love to be the support team who get the job done.
Examples from Scripture
The group of women who often looked after Jesus would be one example, and John Mark would be another, who ‘was with Paul and Barnabas as their helper’ (Acts 13:5).
What does this gift look like in real life?
People with this gift make superb Personal Assistants and team members. They are most fulfilled serving another person / vision and implementing and representing this person. There is sometimes overlap with the gift of administration.
This is a vital gift
Rather like the gift of encouragement, I feel that this is another gift that is not well understood and utilized, and too quickly dismissed as a ‘light-weight’ gift. I believe more people than we think have this gift. To use the phrase ‘Chiefs and Indians’, this is an ‘Indian’ gift. Chiefs desperately need those with this gift to faithfully tuck in behind and represent them and implement the vision. When this happens the effectiveness and enjoyment of the ministry can sky-rocket.
How will I know if I have this gift?
Whilst you will not be a push-over, you will be most comfortable tucking in behind a ‘No 1’ type leader. You may well be drawn to a particular project or person and just want to serve there.
How can I grow my gift?
Firstly, recognize that you have it. Then pray and study to develop it, and get doing it – this might mean approaching a person and making yourself available to them.
