Your Spiritual Gifts and “What Are You Good At?”
1 Corinthians 12:12-31
Here is an interesting quote to think about:
“I ask people, “What are you good at?” …You’ve got to know what you’re good at because these are the cards you bring to the party. In other words, you need a sense of who you are and where you are going.” — Larry Bossidy
When God created you, as the popular phrase goes “God didn’t make no junk.” All people have gifts despite their handicaps, emotional baggage, and their test scores in school. However, many people never allow themselves to find out those things we are best at because of fear of failure. Thus, if you think you can’t do something, the odds you never will.
To break the bonds of not trying, we need to embrace risk, change, and the understanding that everyone starts as a beginner. And, we have to know that when we try things in serving God that He is not only patient, kind, but, most of all loving. If you don’t succeed at something in ministry put it in prayer. God will lead you to success so don’t get frustrated or overly critical of what you “bring to the party.”
All believers are part of the body of Christ. As in a human body, every part of who we are is important. God sees all of His believers the same way. Thus, at church for instance, a greeter is just as important as a preacher is, while the treasurer of the church finances to equally esteemed to someone who teaches the little tots Sunday School class.
Another point is that there is no shame in saying you can do many things but not at an excellent level. Multiple tasking is not something that just anyone can do and some people are simply “helpers” in filling in at times of shortages wherever needed in a church’s operation. These are all gifts worthy of praise and thanks by all who share in the rewards of their service.
We should “earnestly desire the most helpful gifts.” Stretch yourself out as a person and try new ways to serve the Lord. You may find yourself, too, in the process. And what you will find will bring much glory to all.
- Michael Zerkich
(image by Michael Massacre (flickr))
