I know and use my spiritual gifts to accomplish God's purposes.
"Just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, so in Christ we who are many form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. We have different gifts, according to the grace given us."
Romans 12:4-6
What is your favorite hero movie? My favorites are the ones where an unknown, even unsuspected, “minor” character ends up being the one with the unique special gift which turns out to be one thing needed to save the day. Perhaps Samwise from The Lord of the Rings trilogy is one of these characters. As the best friend of Frodo (who saved all of Middle Earth by destroying the ring in Mordor), Samwise didn’t have any particular strengths or possess any powerful weapons. Yet without his fierce dedication and constant encouragement, enemies would have prevailed. Frodo, the obvious hero, would not have triumphed if not for Samwise.
Whether you feel more like a Frodo (with obvious hero qualities) or more like Samwise (kind of ordinary or regular) in the practices of following Jesus, we each have a calling. No matter what you’ve done or where you’ve been, God has some ideas for you. And not only that, he has fashioned you in such a unique way. One of the primary ways God has done this is by giving you at least one spiritual gift. 1 Corinthians 12 states, “There are different kinds of spiritual gifts, but the same Spirit is the source of them all… A spiritual gift is given to each of us so we can help each other.”
What Are the Gifts?
There are a few biblical texts that offer lists of spiritual gifts. First Corinthians 12 is a great beginning place. Among others, it includes the gifts of being apostles, teachers, prophets, helpers, and organizers. Another listing in Romans 12 includes: faith, serving, encouragement, generosity, leadership, and kindness. This isn’t an exhaustive list. Take some time to do biblical digging and study.
How Do I Discover My Spiritual Gift?
That’s a great question. Every Christ-follower should have a good sense of what their spiritual gift is. You can Google “spiritual gifts test.” You’ll find several that are free and reliable. Take one or two. You can also explore your giftings and fit in the context of a group setting. Exploring and sharing these discoveries in the context of a trusting and helpful small group will bring you great encouragement, affirmation, and accountability.
Why Has God Given Me a Spiritual Gift?
The Church, made up Christ-followers both local and global, is described in Scripture as a body. “The human body has many parts, but the many parts make up one whole body. So it is with the body of Christ… All of you together are Christ’s body, and each of you is a part of it” (1 Corinthians 12). You are a unique part of this body of Christ. No one can do what you are designed to do in the body. So you have a purpose and a calling in God’s work in the world and your spiritual gift is a part of your equipping. First Peter 4 states we “manage them (our gifts) well so that God’s generosity can flow through you.” It’s worth noting that God is the one who determines which gift(s) you receive. You do not pick your spiritual gift. But what you’ll find is that your giftings are custom fitted to you.
PRAYER
Father, I thank you that you call me your son/daughter. You have adopted me and I belong to you. And not only that, you have given me a place in your plans. You have ideas for me. Even though you didn’t need me, you have included me. Thank you for such a precious love. Help me to discover the unique ways that you have gifted me. May I spend myself for your glory. As 1 Peter 4:11 says, may I “do it will all the strength and energy God supplies. Then everything [I] do will bring glory to God through Jesus Christ. All glory and power to him forever and ever. Amen.”