How can we discern our "own gift" as mentioned in 1 Corinthians 7:7? remembering the context “I wish that all men were as I am. But each man has his own gift from God; one has this gift, another has that.” (1 Corinthians 7:7) Paul speaks in the midst of counsel about marriage and singleness, showing that different callings—celibacy for some, marriage for others—are gracious endowments from God, not self-chosen statuses. The same principle applies to every spiritual capacity God entrusts to believers. what paul means by “gift” • The Greek “charisma” describes a gracious enablement granted by the Holy Spirit. • It is not earned, nor a natural talent alone, but a Spirit-empowered capacity for service. • 1 Corinthians 12:4: “There are different gifts, but the same Spirit.” • Romans 12:6: “We have different gifts according to the grace given us.” • God assigns each believer at least one such gift (1 Peter 4:10). principles for discerning your own gift • God sovereignly gives; believers humbly receive (1 Corinthians 12:11). • A gift aligns with Scripture and never contradicts clear commands. • Genuine gifts build up the church, not personal prestige (1 Corinthians 14:12). • Spiritual fruit accompanies true gifting (John 15:8; Galatians 5:22-23). • Gifts often harmonize with sanctified desires placed by God (Psalm 37:4). practical steps to confirm your gift — Study the Word: note lists of gifts in Romans 12:3-8; 1 Corinthians 12:4-11, 28-31; Ephesians 4:11-13. Compare your inclinations with these descriptions. — Observe recurring effectiveness: where consistent spiritual fruit appears, God is likely empowering. — Listen to trusted believers: mature brothers and sisters often recognize your God-given strengths (Proverbs 11:14). — Serve broadly first: engaging in varied ministries lets the Spirit highlight areas of unusual joy and impact (Acts 6:3-5). — Examine motives: seek to bless others and glorify Christ, not self (1 Peter 4:11). — Persist in prayerful dependence: “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God” (James 1:5). — Accept God’s timing: gifts may develop or become clear through seasons of growth (2 Timothy 1:6). encouragement to steward your gift well Once recognized, employ the gift diligently and gratefully, knowing “to each one of us grace has been given according to the measure of the gift of Christ” (Ephesians 4:7). Faithful use multiplies blessing in the body and honors the Giver. |
    |