Spiritual gifts are not just for pastors or missionaries. They are for everyone. If you desire to serve God and others, then chances are you have been given a spiritual gift (or more). The key is discovering your gifts and how to use them effectively.
Christ shared widely the gifts he gave to us. (Ephesians 4:7-9)
Do you know what your spiritual gifts are? Do you ever feel like you have a particular thing in you? That means there is something more for you to do in this universe. When we become Christians, the Holy Spirit comes to live in us. He is our Counselor, Comforter, and Guide. He comes with gifts that are a source of great comfort and strength for Christians (Romans 1:11). These gifts help us live a life that is pleasing to God, and they impact every aspect of our lives.
We all have different gifts, and we are meant to use them in different ways. 1 Corinthians 12:4-6 says, “There are now many different gifts, but only one Spirit; many different services, but only one Lord; many various tasks, but only one Almighty who gives each one its strength.” So don’t be afraid to experiment and find what works best for you. There are two primary ways that we can use our spiritual gifts:
- 1 Peter 4:10 says, “Use your gifts to help one another as shining examples of God’s various forms of grace, as each of you has been given one.” We can use our gifts to serve others by showing love and kindness to those around us. Through this, we can make their lives better.
- We can use our gifts to build up the body of Christ by making the church stronger. We can use our gifts to help others grow in their faith and evangelize the lost.
Remember, there is a difference between a spiritual gift and a talent.
A talent is something we are born with, while a spiritual gift is given to us by the Holy Spirit. A spiritual gift is a supernatural ability given to us by God that allows us to serve Him uniquely. When we receive these gifts, it is not because of anything we have done or accomplished. Instead, it is because God has chosen to bless us with them so that we can be a blessing to others. On the other hand, our talents are things that we are good at naturally. Although we may use our talents for God’s purposes, they are not necessarily given to us for ministry.
Types of spiritual gifts
Romans 12:6-8 the scripture says, ”So, since we have different gifts according to the grace that has been bestowed upon us, let us now use them: if revelation, let us prophesy in accordance with our belief; or if ministry, let us use them in our gospel preaching; he who gives, with graciousness; he who leads, with vigilance; and he who shows compassion, with joy and happiness.”
The above passage from Romans lays out a clear case for using our spiritual gifts. We are each given gifts by God’s grace and are responsible for using those gifts well. There are various spiritual gifts mentioned in the Bible, and each one is important in its way. Here are a few of the more commonly discussed gifts:
The gift of prophecy. This gift allows you to see into the future, receive divine guidance, and speak words of wisdom and encouragement. If you feel called to use this gift, it is important to be discerning. Use this gift to help others see God’s hand at work in their lives, even when they may be going through tough times.
Healing. This gift allows you to channel divine energy into someone else to heal them.
Performing miracles This gift allows you to perform seemingly impossible acts. If you feel called to use this gift, it is important to have faith. Remember that anything is possible with the divine power working through you.
Ministry: Those with the gift of ministry are called to serve others. This could involve leading a small group or teaching Sunday school. It could also mean simply being available to listen to someone who needs a friend. If you have the gift of ministry, look for ways to serve others in your church and community.
Teaching: This is the ability to explain biblical truths in a way that helps others understand and apply them to their lives. This could be done by leading a Bible study or writing blog posts like this one. If you have the gift of teaching, it is important to be patient and compassionate and look for opportunities to share your knowledge with others.
Exhortation: This is the ability to build others up through your words and actions. You offer hope and support to others in their time of need. If you have this gift, you may be called to be a counselor or mentor. Inspiration allows you to channel divine guidance and creativity.
Giving: Those with this gift are called to be generous with their time, talents, and resources. If you have the gift of giving, look for ways to bless others with your gifts.
Leading: The gift of leading is all about taking charge and being a leader. This could involve leading a small group or serving on a church committee.
Mercy: The gift of mercy is about understanding and showing compassion to those hurting. This could involve visiting those who are sick or providing meals for families in need.
-The gift of evangelism: This is the ability to share the gospel with others in a way that leads them to faith in Jesus Christ. If you have this gift, you may be called to be a missionary or share your faith with those who don’t yet know Christ.
-The gift of speaking and interpreting in tongues: This is the supernatural ability to speak in a language of the spirit that you have not learned.
How to discover your spiritual gift
There are many ways to discover your spiritual gifts. One way is to take a Spiritual Gifts Inventory test. This test will help you identify your strengths and weaknesses in different areas. Another way is to ask people who know you well what they think your gifts are. You can also ask your pastor or a Christian counselor for their opinion. Lastly, you can pray and ask God to reveal your spiritual gifts. Whichever method you choose, remember that it is important to use your gifts wisely and for the glory of God.
Prayer is a powerful too to reveal your spiritual gifts
Prayer is important since it is given to us by the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit is a guide and teacher, and He will help us to understand our gifts and how to use them in our lives. Additionally, when we pray and ask God to reveal our gifts, we acknowledge that we need His help to understand and use them correctly.
Do you want to know your spiritual gift? If you do, then recite this prayer after me. I believe that with faith and a sincere heart, God will help you discover your spiritual gift. Once you know what it is, be sure to use it for the glory of God.
Dear God
Thank you for being so gracious. You are excellent, able, and a mighty redeemer. Thank you for keeping me alive today so that I may be a vessel for You. All you do for me is according to your purpose, O Lord. You have reminded me that you have given me a spiritual gift. I have been in darkness. Please reveal to me what it is. I am open and receptive to your guidance. Please show me how to use my gifts for Your glory, and help me serve you and others in the best way possible. In Jesus Christ, do I pray and trust. Amen.
Final epilogue
Thank you for joining me on this journey on our spiritual gifts. Suppose you said this prayer sincerely, then congratulations! Trust that God is at work. He will guide you to the answer, whether it comes through other people, online resources, or your reflection. Be patient as you wait for His guidance, and be open to whatever He reveals.
Once you have discovered your spiritual gifts, it is crucial to start using them. Find ways to use your gifts in your everyday life, whether volunteering at your church, helping a neighbor, or simply sharing your faith with someone you know