How can we discern and develop the abilities God has placed within us? The Source of Our Abilities Exodus 35:34: “And He has given both him and Oholiab son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan, the ability to teach others.” • God Himself “has given.” • Skills are not self-generated; they are entrusted by the Creator. • The same Lord who gifted Bezalel and Oholiab still places abilities in every believer today (James 1:17; 1 Corinthians 12:4-6). Noticing the Gifting Within • Pay attention to what stirs joy and energy when you serve (Psalm 37:4). • Listen to the affirmations of mature believers who recognize fruit in your life (Acts 16:1-2). • Observe consistent results. When an ability is from God, effectiveness shows up, just as craftsmanship did for Bezalel (Exodus 35:31-33). Supporting verses – Romans 12:6 – “Having gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, let us use them…” – 1 Peter 4:10 – “Each of you should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.” Testing and Confirming Our Skills • Compare passion with Scripture’s boundaries; every gift must align with clear biblical teaching (2 Timothy 3:16-17). • Submit to church leadership for confirmation and guidance (Hebrews 13:17). • Start small; early practice in safe settings allows gifts to be proven (Luke 16:10). • Notice inner witness and outer fruit together; they should agree (Galatians 5:25; Matthew 7:17). Cultivating What God Has Entrusted • Practice diligently. Skill grows through repeated, intentional use (Proverbs 22:29). • Seek mentors—people like Moses who called out Bezalel’s abilities (Exodus 35:30). • Study and learn. Even Spirit-given gifts sharpen through knowledge (2 Timothy 2:15). • Protect time for development; schedule hours for reading, training, or rehearsal. • Fan the flame, not merely keep an ember (2 Timothy 1:6). Serving the Body and the World • Gifts are for building up others, not spotlighting self (1 Corinthians 12:7). • Use abilities where needs are greatest—hospitality, teaching, craftsmanship, tech, mercy, leadership, music. • Watch how God multiplies impact when abilities meet obedience (Matthew 25:20-21). • Celebrate diversity in gifting; the tabernacle needed artisans, but also priests and laborers (Exodus 36–40). Guarding the Heart While Growing the Gift • Keep motives pure—seek God’s glory, not personal applause (Colossians 3:23-24). • Stay dependent on the Spirit; Bezalel was “filled with the Spirit of God” before he worked (Exodus 35:31). • Resist comparison; one talent or five, each servant answers only to the Master (Matthew 25:14-30). • Maintain gratitude, knowing every skill is grace (1 Corinthians 4:7). Encouragement to Step Forward Today • Recognize the Lord has already placed something valuable in you. • Invite Him to spotlight it, shape it, and release it. • Step into service, trusting the same God who gifted Bezalel will equip you for every good work He has prepared (Ephesians 2:10). |
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