Find Your Gift
Today’s scripture selection: Romans 11-12
Key verses: Romans 12:6-8
In recent years there’s been a lot written about how we should all find our “purpose” in life; how having a personal “mission statement” is a good idea. Maybe it is a sort of pendulum swing from the self-serving consuming attitudes of the nineties. Or maybe people have finally realized that there is more to life than having the latest hair style. Perhaps the daily news reports, of just how messed up much of the world really is, have finally sunk in, causing us to consider what we as individuals might do about it. But whatever the reason – it’s a good thing. It’s time we looked outside ourselves and focused more on “mission” than on “me.” And that is why today’s passage is a good one to ponder carefully.
“We all have different gifts.”
Did you notice it doesn’t say we all have different
- Skill sets or
- Natural talents or
- Attractive strengths or
- Really cool things you can do better than anyone else, because you are so “special”?
Those are things the world talks about. The Bible, in stark contrast, talks about gifts.
You see, it turns out these unique abilities you have are something God has given to you – for a very specific purpose. He gave you life; breath; a unique gift; and a divinely ordered purpose. It’s not about how you have managed well or beat the other guy or gal to the bunch. It’s about how God, in His grace, has given you something very important and beautiful to share. All you have to do is figure out what it is – and then give it away. “Freely you have received; freely give.”
So, the next time you are tempted to be proud about how great you are at this or that – remember – God’s the one to thank. If someone compliments you – maybe the best reply you can make is “thanks, it’s a gift,” and really mean it. Thank God you have something wonderful and much needed to share with your world.
Then give it away.
“We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your faith; if it is serving, then serve; if it is teaching, then teach; if it is to encourage, then give encouragement; if it is giving, then give generously; if it is to lead, do it diligently; if it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully.”
Prayer: Lord, thank you for “gifting” me. May everything I do and say fulfill the purpose you have for me; and the honor and glory be all yours. AMEN.
IGW3 - In God's Word, In God's Will, In God's Work 