Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it. And in the church God has appointed first of all apostles, second prophets, third teachers, then workers of miracles, also those having gifts of healing, those able to help others... (1 Corinthians 12:27-28 NIV) If it is serving, let him serve... (Romans 12:7 NIV)

The Spiritual Gift of Helps/Service Defined

The gift of helps/service is the ability to joyfully work alongside another and help that person complete the task God has given them. People with this gift generally prefer to work behind the scenes. They also tend to find joy in helping alleviate the burdens and responsibilities of others. This gift is usually accompanied with an attitude of humility and sacrifice, as well as an ability to perceive the needs of others.

People with the Gift of Helps/Service

These people tend to demonstrate a servant attitude, loyalty, attention to detail, and responsiveness to the initiatives of others. They function well in positions of detail and assistant leadership.

Helps/Service in Scripture

Matthew 20:28 says that "the Son of Man [Jesus] did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many." Jesus also said, "I am among you as one who serves," and He even washed His disciples' feet (Luke 22:27; John 13:5). Because servants often work behind the scenes, their work but not their name is often mentioned in Scripture (e.g., Numbers 11:17; 1 Timothy 6:2; Acts 6:1-3). People named in the Bible who helped the church through service include Phoebe, Priscilla, Aquila, Tryphena, Tryphosa (Romans 16:1-4,12), and John Mark (Acts 13:5). Some people with this gift are also appointed to leadership as church deacons (1 Timothy 3:8-13).

Do You Have This Gift?

• Do you enjoy helping others become more effective in their work?
• Do you prefer to labor behind the scenes?
• When someone is doing a job poorly is your first instinct to help them instead of criticize?
• Do you prefer to work in a supportive rather than a leadership capacity?
• When you hear of someone with needs, do you offer your services if possible?
• When someone asks for your help, do you have difficulty saying no?