THURSDAY: USING WHAT YOU HAVE BEEN GIVEN
KEY PASSAGE
“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.”
DEVOTIONAL
When we come to faith in Jesus, the Holy Spirit takes residence within us. Each of us is then given what Scripture calls the Gifts of the Spirit. Romans 12:4-8 tells us we all have different gifts - such as encouragement, teaching, giving, prophesying, mercy and more. If you believe in and follow Jesus, YOU have been given spiritual gifts!
Our Scripture today tells us we are to use these gifts to serve others “as faithful stewards of God’s grace.” These gifts are not for us, they are for others. We were given them to build the kingdom of God, and to care for one another. We are to be good stewards of this, meaning we are to take good care of what has been graciously given to us.
How many of us have given someone a very thoughtful gift, only to see it go unused? Or maybe we have been the person to never use a great gift that was given to us. God desires that we actively use the gifts He has given us, not tuck them away under the bed or in the attic. So the question is: what gifts have you been given, and how are you using them?
CHALLENGE
Grab a pen and paper and find a quiet space. Jot down what you think your Spiritual gifts may be. This doesn’t have to be intimidating. Simply start by asking yourself these questions below. Don’t put pressure on yourself, this is simply an exercise to help you start thinking. Most importantly, invite God into this moment with you.
What am I passionate about, what sets my heart on fire?
What breaks my heart?
Since following Jesus, what has He nudged me to do?
What do others say they see in me?