During this season of Advent, waiting for Christ's birth, I've done some reading about gifts. Here are a few thoughts both from the Bible, and from one Christ follower who is wanting to unwrap the gifts that God has given to me...
Romans 12:6 We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. (New Revised Standard Version). Since our gifts vary depending on the grace poured out on each of us, it is important that we exercise the gifts we have been given. (The Voice). So, since we find ourselves fashioned into all these excellently formed and marvelously functioning parts in Christ’s body, let’s just go ahead and be what we were made to be, without enviously or pridefully comparing ourselves with each other, or trying to be something that we aren’t. (The Message)
Romans 12:6 We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. (New Revised Standard Version). Since our gifts vary depending on the grace poured out on each of us, it is important that we exercise the gifts we have been given. (The Voice). So, since we find ourselves fashioned into all these excellently formed and marvelously functioning parts in Christ’s body, let’s just go ahead and be what we were made to be, without enviously or pridefully comparing ourselves with each other, or trying to be something that we aren’t. (The Message)
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| In any language, God makes himself known to His people |
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| The wonder of a child as she receives a gift... |
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| All wrapped up and ready to be given... |
God does the same thing for each of us! When God created you, created me, he wrapped up a whole lot of giftedness in each one of us. And he delights in those moments in life when we figure out the gifts he has given to us, when we find ourselves in situations where those gifts can best be used, and when we use our gifts in a way that honors the One who gave them and brings glory to his name.
Have you ever wondered what your
gifts might be? Maybe you’ve done
a gift’s assessment, or have been encouraged by someone who recognizes the
gifts that God has given to you (and often that happens even before you have
figured that out for yourself!). Are you gifted with a strong belief in
God, do you offer comfort easily, do you have a discerning spirit, are you an
encourager, or perhaps an evangelist, maybe you are someone who gives
generously, or one who is always learning or is gifted as a mentor to
others. Are you the one who
possesses a pioneer spirit and easily starts new projects, who has
organizational skills to the max (with the folder that says “I’m so amazingly
organized!”), or maybe you’re a great Bible teacher or preacher, or perhaps a
“behind the scenes” person that every body of Jesus followers so desperately
needs?
Here’s the cool thing we all need
to wake up and recognize in the body of Christ:
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| Some gifts are meant to be colorful and attractive to the eye... |
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| And some gifts arrive in the quiet of a holy night ~ |
~God has given us different gifts!
~those gifts are not to be
compared to any other gifts that God gives to anyone else
~the gifts are to be used to
build up, support and encourage the body of Christ for growth
~we are at our best in God’s eyes
when we recognize our gifts, use them,
pray for other gifts to be released in our midst, and thank God for the
gifts.
Because, like any gift in life,
they are best appreciated when they are given away.
So, find your gift, put yourself
in the best place where it can be used, and then, give it away. And expect to
find such great joy in the giving!
