You’ve heard the phrase “couch potatoes,” right? Couch potatoes describe those who hunker down in their easy chairs watching game after game with the remote in one hand, snacks in the other, and a drink just a short reach away. The only exercise they get is changing their jersey to match the sport they are watching and the team they are rooting for.

Have you heard of “pew potatoes”? Pew potatoes describe those who hunker down in the “pew” weekend after weekend with their smartphone in hand. The only exercise they get is standing during the worship songs and writing complaint cards that they had to stand during the worship songs! They have a long list of discipleship groups, Bible studies, Sunday school classes, and conferences they have attended. But their biblical caloric intake far exceeds the energy spent serving others. As a result, they are spiritually flabby and out of shape. Our passage today tells us to move from the pew and serve others.

1 Peter 4:10
As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace….

This verse emphasizes that every believer has at least one gift. The gift is not given for us to let atrophy from lack of use. It has been given “to serve one another.” Neglecting to use your gift, for whatever reason, not only hurts you but the entire body of Christ.  You have a gift! Time to use it!

Father, please don’t let us become pew potatoes. Help us faithfully use the generous and gracious gifts that you have given. Give us energy and joy to serve others. In Jesus’ name. Amen.