When Jesus went back to heaven, He gave gifts to His people. These are not gifts we buy or earn. They are abilities the Holy Spirit gives, “dividing to every man severally as he will” (1 Corinthians 12:11). Some are gifted to teach, preach or lead; others to encourage, to give, to show mercy or to serve (Romans 12:6-8; 1 Corinthians 12:8-10).
Every believer has at least one gift. “As every man hath received the gift, even so minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God” (1 Peter 4:10). No gift is small. The sister who cooks for the sick, the brother who repairs the church roof and the deacon who welcomes visitors are all serving Christ with their gifts.
The gifts are not given to make anyone famous. God gave them “For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ” (Ephesians 4:12). And without love, even the greatest gift is worth nothing (1 Corinthians 13:2). When each member uses his or her gift with love, the church grows strong and the world sees Jesus. Ask God to show you your gifts, and then use them.
Key Bible verses
- Romans 12:4-8Gifts differing according to the grace given.
- 1 Corinthians 12:4-11Diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit.
- 1 Corinthians 12:27-28Ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular.
- Ephesians 4:8, 11-13Gifts for the edifying of the body of Christ.
- 1 Peter 4:10-11Minister your gift as good stewards.
- Matthew 25:14-29The parable of the talents.
- 1 Corinthians 13:1-2Without charity, I am nothing.
Tap a reference to read it in the Bible.
Think about it
- What gifts do others see in you? What do you enjoy doing for God?
- Why does Paul put love above all the gifts in 1 Corinthians 13?
- How could you use your gift in your church or community this month?
