Feelings of inadequacy aren't always a bad thing - in fact, they can provide the perfect opportunity for spiritual growth and motivate us to trust God and believe His promises.
That's according to evangelist Billy Graham, who, in his syndicated advice column for the Bowling Green Daily News, shares his thoughts in response to a reader feeling ill-equipped to serve in the church.
"I've just been asked to be on our church's governing board, but I'm not sure I should accept," says the reader. "I've always been active in our church, but this is a big responsibility and I'm not sure if I'm qualified. Should I tell them to get someone else?"
The 98-year-old founder of the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association first advises the reader to joyfully accept the position as an opportunity to serve Christ: "Obviously others in your church believe you're qualified for this responsibility, or they wouldn't have chosen you," he says.
Graham says he is "glad" the reader feels inadequate, as it will make them more dependent on God.
"In other words, if you thought you had all the answers and always knew exactly what should be done, you'd never feel any need to seek God's wisdom," he explains. "But you and your fellow board members are involved in God's work, and you need His guidance. The Bible says, 'the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere' (James 3:17)."
The evangelist then highlights three ways to approach such a responsibility. First, approach it humbly: "Listen to those with more experience; see it as a responsibility that God has given you; avoid any hint of pride," Graham advises.
Second, approach it prayerfully: "You'll be making decisions that affect not only your church's future, but also the spiritual health of every person in your congregation," he says.
Finally, approach it biblically: "Study what God says in His Word about spiritual leadership, and seek to put it into action," Graham concludes.
The evangelist, who has preached to more people in live audiences than anyone else in history, according to the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, frequently discusses the importance of participating in church and engaging with the Body of Christ.
In a previous "My Answers" column, Graham encouraged readers to attend worship in an actual church building - even when the same service is available to watch from home.
"First, you'll miss the opportunity to be part of the congregation - to sing with others, to give to God's work, and especially to get to know other believers and learn from them," wrote Graham.
"But you also may miss the opportunity to serve Christ alongside your fellow believers. A vital church isn't just inward-looking; it also looks outward and seeks to serve others in the name of Jesus."
