Debbie Boffey ~ Teaching Team Leader 

One of the wonderful things about a large church is that it has the professional staff and large volunteer base, as well as the budget to produce wonderful programs for its members. However, one of the worst things about a large church is that it has a professional staff and large volunteer base to produce wonderful programs for its members. So, how can both be true?

The problems come in to play when it conflicts with (the “B” word), Balance. I have yet to discover an area in life that does not require some sort of balance to be healthy. Our spiritual lives are no exception. In church we are often presented with various classes and programs to attend and participate in. Though these are extremely beneficial to our spiritual health, it is imperative that we do not assume that all work in the church is to take place in and through programs.

It is important to remember that the movement of the Holy Spirit in our lives trumps the church calendar every time. Our gifts and our works must not be relegated only to “officially sanctioned” events. Use your gifts and talents as individuals, to teach, to learn, to serve, and to practice hospitality from the basis of who you are in Christ. Sometimes that is in the form of a church group, sometimes a simple group of likeminded believers, or even alone. Each Christian is just as called, just as responsible and just as capable in the areas that God calls them to. Though we are blessed by wonderful leaders, ultimately the head of the church is Jesus Christ and He is able to take care of His people.

When I think of balance I often picture a teeter totter. In order to make your teeter totter balance, imagine yourself on one end and an equal weight of commitment on the other. It is our job to assess and adjust the weight we put on the other side to the best of our ability. When looking at your balance of church participation, how are you doing? If your behind (another “B” word) is on the ground, let me be frank; maybe you need to get busy and find a way to get involved.

For most of us this is not the problem. Most of us have our feet dangling in the air of over-commitment. As hard as it is to accept the obvious, something has to go. Learn that the word “no” is truly not a dirty word. “No” is simply a tool that actually protects the integrity of the other priorities in your life. It allows you to give your best to those things that are the most important — like your marriage and family or your health — so that you are best equipped to serve. 

Finally, recognize that as the seasons in your life change, so too does the need to rearrange the weight on that other end. Let’s allow ourselves and each other to use the “B” word in church. Guard your teeter totter, girls!