Hello there
Can you remember when you first heard about spiritual gifts? I may have been exposed prior; but I recall participating in a spiritual gifts inventory process as a young adult. That concept was new to me and I ‘heard’ spiritual gifts differently thereafter. Yet, one thing that struck me was that the introduction to the spiritual gifts inventory included today’s Holy Nougat
“God has given each of you a gift from his great variety of spiritual gifts. Use them well to serve one another.” 1 Peter 4:10 NLT
There is a variety of gifts (not only the ‘big’ three – tongues, healing and the prophetic) which God has in store, waiting for us to claim. And they are intended to help us as we work Together, supporting each other. So each of us has a spiritual gift. None of us is exempt. Nor are they solely reserved for pastors.
If all the above is true, then you and I ought to be using our spiritual gifts; no excuses. That suggests we should Know where our gifting lies. A spiritual gifts inventory and prayerful consideration might solve can help us figure out our own gift.
Having figured out our spiritual gift, it may be good to read a bit more and spend time asking God for guidance about how to best use the gift. I remember thinking that I had to tell my pastor to roster me for preaching after someone spoke into my life. Uhm; not necessarily. I also remember ignoring the lecturer in seminary; because I was ‘gifted’ to preach. Uhhh … not very wise (perhaps I needed the genuine gift of humility!) Definitely, seeking God’s direction is the way to be sure that we are using our gifts properly.
Hopefully, like me you’d have noticed that there is zero reference in the Nougat about ‘trying a thing’. Nope. Not one. For, God’s gifts are personalized – we are likely in a worship space to receive and operate differently. Just as fingerprints differ between twins; so it is likely that there are subtle differences in the way God’s Spirit manifests through us.
And, with our personal knowledge of Jesus; and our acceptance of Him in our hearts; we have direct access to God’s mercy. The gifts around us (manifested through others), provide support as we serve each other.
We pause here until such time. I pray this offers added value as we seek to use our spiritual gifts wisely, with each other and for God’s glory.
Good morning
In Christ’s love and grace . . .
