Day 4

Read:

1 Corinthians 12:4-11

Dig Deeper:

You have skills, talents, and gifts. Yes, YOU! And, how do I know this? In today’s scripture reading, we’re told that the Holy Spirit has given gifts to each of us. That’s great news because it means that there is a way for us to live out our purpose.

See, those gifts that we have are tools that God has given us to fulfill our mission. What are your gifts? You may be able to list them off right now, or you may have no idea, but since we know you have them, let’s talk about how to discover them. I want to lay out two really important gift revealers.

The first is your friends. Get around some people who know you, care about you, and will be honest with you. Start asking them what skills and talents they see in you. Then, go from there! You may be pleasantly surprised at what they say.

The second is also important, but not quite as straightforward. And that gift revealer is time. You don’t have to rush it. Take some time to figure out what your gifting is. Try some things out. Try serving in your church community. If you join the cafe team and the coffee comes out weak, try the greeting team. This works outside of church too. Did you know that God gives us gifts to use outside of church because our mission is an all-th- time-thing not just an at-church-thing? Take the time to see if you might be good at building things, knitting, or cooking. God can use any of these gifts to complete your mission!

But, don’t get it twisted. Once you know your gifts, it’s important to remember that those gifts aren’t the mission. If you’re a gifted writer, it’s important to remember that the point of your writing isn’t to gain popularity or influence, but to point people to Jesus. If you’re good at running, it’s important to remember that trophies aren’t the true goal, but displaying the goodness and strength of God in your perseverance is.

Check out this story found in the book of Matthew:

“As Jesus was walking beside the Sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers, Simon called Peter and his brother Andrew. They were casting a net into the lake, for they were fishermen. 19 “Come, follow me,” Jesus said, “and I will send you out to fish for people.” 20 At once they left their nets and followed him.” Matthew 4:18-20, NIV

Just like He did for Peter and Andrew, if we allow Him to, God can take our gifts and use them for the mission–to make Him known. Are you ready to begin?

Declaration: Say this next statement out loud as a declaration of what you have learned today.

God has given me special talents and abilities. I will use these to make Him known!

Pray:

God, help me to discover my talents and abilities. I want to use them to honor You and make You known. Give me opportunities and courage to use them. Thank you for what you’re going to do through me. Amen.