Spiritual Gifts . . . Designing the Ultimate Wardrobe

Week 39, Friday

Rhonda Kelley

Now the end of all things is near; therefore, be clear-headed and disciplined for prayer. Above all, keep your love for one another at full strength, since love covers a multitude of sins. Be hospitable to one another without complaining. Based on the gift they have received, everyone should use it to serve others, as good managers of the varied grace of God. If anyone speaks, [his speech should be] like the oracles of God; if anyone serves, [his service should be] from the strength God provides, so that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. To Him belong the glory and the power forever and ever. Amen. 1 Peter 4:7-11 (hcsb)

Can you imagine keeping a beautiful package and never unwrapping it? I can’t! I am too curious not to open a gift immediately. Why is it then that some Christians receive a spiritual gift carefully given by God and never unwrap it? Many spiritual gifts remain unwrapped on a shelf, unusable by the Master. Don’t be guilty of hoarding your spiritual gifts!

God selects perfect gifts for every believer, but like a new garment or wardrobe piece, you must wear it for it to be useful. Spiritual gifts are only spiritual gifts when they are used for ministry. How can you develop your spiritual gifts? How can you develop your ultimate spiritual wardrobe?

In 1 Peter 4:7-11, the first step toward developing spiritual gifts is quickly identified—discipline. While discipline is not a pleasant word or easy process, it is necessary in life and ministry. Specifically, Christians are to be disciplined in prayer in order to discover and develop their spiritual gifts. Gifts should be used to serve others from the strength God provides. When a believer exercises her spiritual gifts, God will be praised and glorified.

As you develop your spiritual gifts, understand your motives and passions. Consider the needs of the people around you. Seek guidance and godly counsel from other Christian people. Persist in the disciplined development of your spiritual gifts. Then you can delight in them!

Dear Lord, Your Word clearly teaches that You have given me spiritual gifts. By faith and through prayer, I want to develop them as a ministry in Your name. May my spiritual gifts bring others to You. In Your precious name, amen.