How can we use our gifts to serve others and glorify God? One Spirit, Many Gifts “There are different gifts, but the same Spirit.” (1 Corinthians 12:4) “Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good.” (1 Corinthians 12:7) Why Gifts Are Given • To serve people: “As good stewards of the manifold grace of God, each of you should use whatever gift he has received to serve one another.” (1 Peter 4:10) • To glorify God: “If anyone serves, he should do so with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ.” (1 Peter 4:11) • To build up Christ’s body: “to equip the saints for works of ministry and to build up the body of Christ.” (Ephesians 4:11-12) Identifying the Gift God Has Placed in You • Pay attention to Spirit-prompted desires that bless others. • Notice what trusted believers affirm in you. • Examine where service feels fruitful and joyful. • Compare with the gift lists (Romans 12:6-8; 1 Corinthians 12:8-10; Ephesians 4:11). Developing Your Gift Faithfully • Invest time and effort—“If it is teaching, let him teach.” (Romans 12:7) • Seek mentoring from mature believers. • Practice consistently; small acts prepare for larger ones (Matthew 25:21). • Depend on the Spirit, not mere talent—“serve with the strength God provides.” (1 Peter 4:11). Serving Others with Your Gift • Speaking gifts: preaching, teaching, encouragement, evangelism. Share truth clearly and lovingly. • Service gifts: hospitality, administration, giving, mercy. Meet practical needs with joy. • Sign gifts: healing, miracles, discernment. Follow Scriptural guidelines and point all attention to Christ. • Leadership gifts: shepherding, oversight. Equip others rather than control them. Keeping the Right Heart • Stay humble—gifts are grace, not merit (Romans 12:3). • Serve in love—without love, gifts are “a clanging cymbal.” (1 Corinthians 13:1) • Celebrate diversity—every part of the body is needed (1 Corinthians 12:14-20). • Guard against envy or comparison; the Spirit decides the distribution (1 Corinthians 12:11). Aim for God’s Glory “So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” (1 Corinthians 10:31) “And whatever you do, in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus.” (Colossians 3:17) When people thank you, redirect praise to the Giver. Let every act of service showcase His character and advance His gospel. Practical Next Steps This Week • List occasions where you’ve sensed God’s pleasure while helping others. • Ask a mature believer to describe the gifts they see in you. • Choose one concrete opportunity—teaching a class, preparing a meal, writing a note of encouragement—and commit to it. • Before serving, pray Psalm 115:1 in your own words: “Not to us, LORD, but to Your name give glory.” |
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