The hidden problem in “healthy” faith communities
You can have a healthy church…
and still have people quietly wondering where they fit.
They show up.
They care.
They’re willing.
But underneath, there’s a question they don’t always say out loud:
“Am I actually needed here?”
I’ve seen this for years.
Not because faith communities are doing something wrong—
but because we often skip a critical step:
helping people connect how God designed them
with how they actually live and serve
So people stay on the edges.
Not disengaged.
Not resistant.
Just… unsure.
And over time, “unsure” turns into underused.
Here’s what I’ve learned:
When people understand how God uniquely wired them—
and are given a simple way to act on that—
they don’t have to be pushed.
They step forward.
If you’re planning fall groups or ministry rhythms,
this is the shift that changes everything.
More on how I approach this:
godgiftsyou.com
And the guided workbook faith communities are using:
God. Gifts. You. on Amazon
Important resources:
Take this free spiritual gifts assessment or this free Spanish language spiritual gifts assessment.
Purchase the six-week workbook in English or Spanish:
Downloadable Resources--See Sample List of Interest Areas; Your Spiritual Gifts—A Study Guide; Knowing Your Unique Calling and Purpose Study Guide; Whole-Life Ministry: A Form of Worship, Grace-Giving, and Living into Your Calling.
Shirley Giles Davis, author of God's Affirmations For You: A Book of Encouragement—A 12-Week Devotional Practice, the God. Gifts. You. Your Unique Calling and Design workbook, Your Unique Design Class Guide, Your Unique Design Facilitator Guide, DIOS. DONES. TÚ.: Tu llamado y diseño único (Spanish Edition), and Gifts-Calling-Purpose blog, is a consultant, coach, facilitator who has worked with hundreds of faith-based organizations, nonprofit agencies, and executive leaders in a diversity of fields for four decades. She currently serves as Catalyst for Equipping at her church.