As we open this subject, let’s ensure we distinguish between simply helping because there’s an obvious need and a man’s calling. Helping or volunteering is about saying “yes” when someone asks you to stack chairs, greet at the door, or direct traffic in the parking lot. Helping is also about pitching in before being asked. These vital roles sustain the life of the church. You might be asked to setup chairs for 10 minutes for an upcoming men’s Bible study. We’re not taking, supreme court, life-long appointments; just lending a hand. Helping is directly connected to a man’s faithfulness, humility, and availability.
A man’s calling is deeper. It’s the unique, God-given purpose that shapes how a man lives, leads, and serves at a deeper level. It’s stepping into the specific work God prepared for him (Ephesians 2:10). Calling is tied to spiritual gifts, passions, experiences, and the Spirit’s leading. It’s about alignment—serving in ways that maximize impact for the Kingdom and draw on how God wired you.
Some acts of volunteering become doorways to discovering your calling. Parents who step in to help a youth pastor often realize they’re gifted to lead and invest in students. A love for technology can grow into a calling in media or production. Playing an instrument may open the door to serving on the worship team. Even serving coffee at church events or bringing meals to shut-ins can awaken a passion for the hospitality ministry.
Most men in church today fall into one of two camps: the guys who help because someone asked, and the guys who quietly wonder if their life has a bigger purpose than stacking chairs. And let’s be honest—some of us hide behind “helping” because it feels safe. It’s easier to greet at the door than to step into leadership. It’s easier to say yes to running sound than to admit we’re not sure what God’s calling us to. On the flip side, some men avoid helping at all because they’re “waiting to find their calling,” not realizing that faithfulness in the small stuff often reveals the big stuff.
Here’s the truth: helping at church is good, but it’s not the same thing as your calling. The problem is that we rarely hear anyone talk about the difference. We preach about serving, but we don’t always teach men how to recognize the unique way God designed them. The result? Some men stay stuck filling gaps forever. Others sit on the sidelines waiting for a thunderbolt from heaven. Both miss out on the full life God offers.
Scripture
“For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.”
— Ephesians 2:10 (ESV)
Paul’s words cut through the confusion: you were handcrafted by God Himself. You’re not a random collection of skills and quirks—you’re intentional design. The “good works” God prepared for you aren’t generic. They’re specific assignments tied to who He made you to be.
Here’s what’s often not said: calling isn’t always a one-time “aha” moment. Most of the time, it unfolds step by step. It’s discovered through obedience in the ordinary, through serving in unseen places, through seasons of trial and growth. Many men either wait for a clear sign and do nothing or assume every need equals their calling. Neither extreme is biblical. God calls you to both: humble acts of service and intentional steps toward your unique role in His Kingdom.
Application
Helping at church is kingdom work, even if it’s not flashy. When you usher, wipe tables, or hold babies in the nursery, you’re reflecting the humility of Christ, who washed His disciples’ feet. These moments matter because they shape your heart, teach you flexibility, and remind you that the Kingdom runs on servanthood, not titles.
But if you only ever “help,” you’ll miss out on the purpose God designed for your life. Your calling is where your gifts, passions, life experiences, and God’s Spirit come together. It’s not just about filling a role in a program; it’s about aligning your life with His mission. That could mean discipling other men, starting a ministry, building a business for Kingdom impact, or leading quietly in your family and workplace.
Here’s what rarely gets said: helping is training ground, not a holding cell. It’s not beneath you, but it’s also not the end goal. God often reveals calling through service, but He didn’t create you to spend your whole life just plugging holes. He made you to build something that lasts.
Today’s Challenge: Don’t wait to be asked
Write down every way you currently serve or “help” at church. Then honestly ask: Which of these roles stretch me but don’t energize me? Which ones feel like they tap into how God made me? Don’t overthink it—just notice the difference. Bring this list to God and ask Him to start clarifying which roles are preparation and which ones are purpose.
Then pray this:
“Father, thank You for every chance to serve, even when it feels small or unseen. Teach me to serve humbly and joyfully because Jesus first served me. But Lord, I don’t want to settle for filling gaps—I want to walk in the works You prepared for me. Open my eyes to see where You’re leading me. Help me take the next step into my calling with courage and faith. Amen.”
Final Thought
Helping at church is about love and obedience; calling is about destiny and design. They’re not in competition—you need both. Helping keeps you grounded and connected to the body, while calling gives your life focus and power. The danger comes when men confuse the two: they either settle for “good enough” or chase significance without serving. Jesus modeled both humility and mission. So should we.
This week’s step: Ask one trusted brother or leader in your life: “Where do you see God’s calling in me? Where do I make the most Kingdom impact?” Then commit to one new act of helping this week—not because it’s glamorous, but because faithfulness in the small things sharpens your heart for the big things.
snag this print-friendly version for your next men’s breakfast or bible study.
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