Spiritual Gifts . . . Designing the Ultimate Wardrobe
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.