In what ways can we ensure our gifts honor God and not self-interest? Opening the Text “A man’s gift opens doors for him, and brings him before great men.” (Proverbs 18:16) The verse acknowledges that God-given abilities, resources, talents, or opportunities can place us in significant positions. The issue is not whether gifts gain influence—Scripture assumes they will. The concern is how we steward that influence so the spotlight stays on the Giver, not the gifted. Recognizing the Source • James 1:17: “Every good and perfect gift is from above…” • 1 Corinthians 4:7 reminds that everything we have was received, so boasting is senseless. When we consciously credit God as the Origin of every skill, platform, and resource, self-glory loses its footing. Clarifying the Purpose • 1 Peter 4:10-11: “As good stewards of the manifold grace of God, each of you should use whatever gift he has received to serve one another… so that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ.” • Matthew 5:16 calls us to let our light shine “so that they may see your good works and glorify your Father.” Gifts are tools for service and testimony, not trophies for admiration. Guardrails Against Self-Interest • Daily heart checks (Psalm 139:23-24) to expose mixed motives. • Accountability—inviting mature believers to speak into how we use our gifts. • Regular gratitude: naming specific ways God enabled the good result keeps praise flowing upward. • Anonymous acts of service when possible, training the heart to rejoice unseen (Matthew 6:1-4). • Generous giving of time, talent, and treasure—open hands prevent clenched fists. Practices That Honor God 1. Humble Assessment (Romans 12:3) – Think soberly about abilities; resist exaggeration or false modesty. 2. Skillful Excellence (Colossians 3:23) – Work “with all your heart, as working for the Lord,” valuing quality because it reflects His character. 3. Spirit-Dependence (John 15:5) – Continual prayer and Scripture intake keep us attached to the Vine, ensuring fruit is Spirit-grown. 4. Service Orientation – Ask, “Who is helped?” before “How am I perceived?” Philippians 2:3-4 urges looking to others’ interests. 5. Verbal Glory to God – When complimented, naturally redirect credit: “Thank you; God’s been kind to let me do this.” Warnings When We Drift Toward Self • Inflated ego—seeking platforms larger than obedience requires (3 John 9). • Comparison or envy—measuring worth by others’ gifts (Galatians 6:4). • Neglect of private devotion—public success outpaces private surrender, inviting pride. Encouragement to Walk It Out Romans 12:6 says, “We have different gifts according to the grace given us.” Grace is both the reason and the regulator. Use every gift wholeheartedly, always circling back to praise the One who gave it. When doors open and great people notice, let the room sense more of Christ than of us. |
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