“As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace…” 1 Peter 4:10, (ESV)
Gifted people go places. It almost doesn’t matter what your particular gift is. If you have “gifted hands,” you might become a renowned brain surgeon. If you are good at swallowing and regurgitating sharp metal objects, you may end up on the stage of America’s Got Talent. We love to celebrate those who are gifted, even with strikingly unusual abilities. But even more, we love to be gifted.
It’s because of our obsession with giftedness in this world that we can become distracted from the proper use of spiritual gifts in the church. So here are a few quick reminders:
“As each has received a gift…”
You don’t have a gift because you are special. You have a gift because every follower of Christ has one. (Well, yes, of course you are incredibly special).
“…use it to serve one another…”
Not your own ego. Your gift is not a means of getting attention, applause, or appreciation. It’s not for “building a platform” for yourself; it’s for building up others in Christ.
“…as good stewards…”
A steward is not an owner. A steward is responsible to look after something that belongs to someone else. The Lord has given you your spiritual gift to use responsibly until He returns.
“… of God’s varied grace…”
A spiritual gift is a channel of God’s grace to you and God’s grace through you to others. And this grace is “varied” according to God’s design (1 Corinthians 12:11). So don’t compare yourself with others; instead set your mind on serving others with whatever gift God has given you by his grace.
Lord, help me to be a good steward of the gift you have given me. Set me free to serve others with the gift you have given me, for the glory of Christ. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Take Action
Have you paid too much attention to your gift(s) and lost sight of the Gift-Giver? Renew your commitment to Jesus today.