Last week we discussed the idea of avoiding comparing ourselves to others, primarily because God created each of us for a very unique and special purpose. There were some exceptions (for example, it’s ok to mimic the actions of a worthy and wise role model) but, generally, it’s best to focus on God’s unique plan for your life. During this discussion, we touched on spiritual gifts and the role they play in helping us stay on the distinct path God has planned for each of us.
But what exactly are these spiritual gifts and how do we know which gifts we have? Let’s start with three references from scripture about spiritual gifts:
There are different kinds of gifts but the same Spirit. There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord. (1 Cor. 12:4-5)
Each one should use whatever gift they have received to serve others, faithfully administering God’s grace in its various forms. (1 Pet. 4:10)
Just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, so in Christ we who are many form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. We have different gifts, according to the grace given us. (Romans 12:4-6a)
For each of us, our unique path has unique challenges and opportunities to serve God. And He has already provided us with special gifts (spiritual gifts) to make us more effective along the way. As we use our spiritual gifts to serve God, we collectively strengthen the Body of Christ.
Here is a helpful link to an explanation of spiritual gifts that includes a list of all the gifts listed in various passages in the Bible. These include administration, apostle, discernment, evangelism, exhortation, faith, giving, healings, helper, knowledge, leadership, mercy, miracles, pastor, prophesy, service, teaching, tongues (interpreting), and wisdom.
As examples, if your gifts are “missions” and “administration” then you may be best suited for various types of missions. Or if your gifts are “teaching” and “leading” then you’ll be most effective in developing and leading teaching ministries.
There are hundreds of surveys online to help you determine your spiritual gifts. Here is a good one created by the Methodist Church. Once you know your gifts, you’ll be better equipped to serve God and be more effective on your unique spiritual journey.
Questions:
- Based on today’s lesson, why do you think it is important to understand your spiritual gifts?
- Have you ever taken a spiritual gifts survey? If so, what are your gifts?
- Whether or not you know your spiritual gifts, do you feel like you’ve been consistently attracted to certain types of service or ministries? If so, what specific gifts would that indicate you might have?
- Is it a bad thing to volunteer or serve in ways that are not directly related to your spiritual gifts?
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