If it’s a battle to get out of bed each morning, if you feel numb or disinterested in life, and if every decision you make feels like it took an act of war, let me share something with you. 

This may sound too difficult at first but, just like learning to play an instrument, it will actually help you, given a little time.  Serving – or volunteering – starts with very small steps.  Just the fact that someone else is depending upon you for help… helps!  It is challenging yet rewarding.

For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many. Mark 10:45

I remember when I was so drained, so deep in depression that just getting in the car for a drive took all that I had.  BUT, I also remember that it helped.  Just a little bit, but when things are that dark, going from seeing everything as black to seeing things as dark gray is a welcome improvement.  It’s similar with serving others… if you stick with it, you will find more purpose and accomplishment in your life. You will start to feel needed and appreciated.  Persistence and determination may return to you as you gain new social connections with other volunteers.

If anyone serves, he should do it with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. 1 Peter 4:11

Please note that serving is not about us receiving attention.  On the contrary, we are practicing trading selfishness for selfLESSness.  Serving is also an act of worship and a way to honor our Lord.  Ask him for the strength you need to move forward in serving him by serving others.   

Rendering service with a good will as to the Lord and not to man, knowing that whatever good anyone does, this he will receive back from the Lord, whether he is a slave or free. Ephesians 6:7-8

Jer 31:25 I will refresh the weary and satisfy the faint.” 

My friend, we all go through seasons of struggle.  If you are there now, let me remind you…

The Lord is close to the brokenhearted
and saves those who are crushed in spirit.

Psalm 34:18

Next Steps

Pray about serving – pause, reflect, listen

Identify areas of interest to you and look for opportunities around you

Start slowly – for example once a month or serve with a friend here and there

Consider having someone else drive you there which might lessen your stress while also adding some accountability