We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your faith; if it is serving, then serve; if it is teaching, then teach; if it is to encourage, then give encouragement; if it is giving, then give generously; if it is to lead, do it diligently; if it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully. (Romans 12: 6-8)
This seems like a message from Apostle Obvious, but it’s really a tremendous challenge. When Paul says, “if your gift…” that is a mighty big “if”. Do you know what your “gift” is — that special capability that came from God directly to you, gift-wrapped in grace? Can you name it? If we asked your friends or family, could they name it? Paul makes God’s will pretty simple and direct here: do your gift. It takes the character and decisiveness of being a “living sacrifice” to focus the lion’s share of your energy on doing your gift. If you are like me you probably want to dabble in this and that as the mood suits you. Or you are listening to someone who says you should live out their gift. Or you are trapped in the well-rounded-multitasking-myth of trying to be like your computer. We should know the gift God has given us and be exercising it and developing it as the dominant theme of our lives. When we do, together we’re an orchestra, not a kazoo band. Make today about using your unique, Godly gift.
Lord, I am accountable for how I use the gift you have given me. Forgive me when I try to be someone I’m not, because your plan depends on me being who I am. Amen.
