"Who am I?" Moses responded. The living God had just revealed his personal will and plan to Moses. But Moses met that revelation with doubt and argument; discouragement flooded Moses' mind as he fixated his thoughts on his human shortcomings.

Who am I?

From one generation to the next, Christians continue to resist God’s calling, asking the same question. Volunteers typically ask it with intense emotion, especially when service brings unfamiliar tasks or new challenges.

How can leaders in congregations encourage volunteers, helping them overcome their multiplying doubts?

First, we need to diagnose what lies behind those doubts. Moses questioned his ability to serve the Lord because of past failures, past sins (Exodus 2:11-15). Sometimes, potential volunteers need reassurance of God’s forgiving heart in Christ’s cross.

But doubts can also spring from past failures to complete an assignment or from a bad experience in a similar situation. All volunteers need an occasional reminder that they can rely upon the Lord as the source of their strength. He produces the results in the hearts and lives of those we serve. He asks only that we serve faithfully and that we place the responsibility for results in his hands.

Doubts can also arise when leaders neglect ongoing recognition and support. Sending simple thank you notes to volunteers or adopting other forms of on-going recognition takes only a little time, but pays big dividends in volunteer retention. Everyone can use a verbal pat on the back — often!

Time grows more and more precious as both moms and dads work outside the home. What innovative ways would work to encourage volunteerism in your setting? Could you provide childcare? Could you pair volunteers to create a backup support system? (We will explore other, very practical options in upcoming articles in this series.)

God never calls people to serve him and his people without first equipping them to serve successfully. And with his calling, "all things are possible" (Matthew 19:26). As you encourage God’s people to see his calling to service, you will help potential volunteers escape the "who am I?" debate.