Is it wrong to do volunteer work that may interfere with attending services?
Question:
Jeffrey,
I want to ask a question concerning non-government operations (NGOs) and volunteer groups. I have this desire to be part of such organizations and groups to help humans and contribute to society and humanity in general. But my challenge is that it can be time-consuming, which is affecting my presence in church (mostly weekly activities not on Sunday).
Some brethren are seeing it as misplaced priorities, putting the world before Christ. But I see it has service to humanity, which Christ commands and besides is God's purpose for our life not tied to serving man?
Please Jeff I need your advice. Thanks and awaiting your response.
Answer:
Which is a greater service to humanity? Feeding someone a meal or helping a soul reach heaven? Sometimes we get focused on this world and forget that we are all passing through to another. "No soldier in active service entangles himself in the affairs of everyday life, so that he may please the one who enlisted him as a soldier" (II Timothy 2:4).
Yes, we are to do good, but not to the neglect of what is truly good. "Let us not lose heart in doing good, for in due time we will reap if we do not grow weary. So then, while we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, and especially to those who are of the household of the faith" (Galatians 6:9-10). The phrase we need to take note of is "while we have opportunity." We all have limited resources: limited money, limited time, etc. None of us can do everything we would like. Thus, priority is given to God's people and then to the world.
Imagine having an orchard during a drought. Which trees do you water first with the limited water you have? The wise farmer waters the most productive trees first because a larger harvest can be gained in this way. In the same way, we help out brethren first because it is more likely to lead to more people reaching heaven than pouring all our resources onto those who refuse to believe.
It is great that you want to do volunteer work, but fit it around the things that are most important. "But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you" (Matthew 6:33). I know some groups have multiple events held every week and for many, not everyone is expected to attend. However, you should be with the saints when the whole church is gathering (Hebrews 10:25).
Response:
Thanks a lot.
