Deep into one of the greatest pieces of writing in history, the Apostle Paul throws out a list of 7 gifts. His short list might seem to be a mere passing reference in the middle of a larger flow of thought, yet upon reflection, the gifts he records are anything but haphazard. In just three verses, he summarises the sevenfold spectrum of God-given competency that exists across communities, both then and now. He writes:
“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.”
In this part-devotional, part-study, we will dive deep into these few verses. As we do so, we’ll begin to understand ourselves better and those around us too. Though each of us starts this journey in the same text, expect God to speak to you specifically through it. Over the next 6 weeks, pray that God will use this journey to equip you to:
- Be able to better identify and appreciate your God-crafted uniqueness.
- Clarify, sharpen and deploy your God-powered contribution in the body of Christ.
- Be more aware of your natural strengths and their potential shadow-side in your relationships, work-life and church-life.
- Be able to recognise and celebrate the way God has made and uses other people.
- Move from comparison and competition with others to joyful interdependence with them in team and community.
If you haven’t already taken the “Spiritual Gifts Assessment” Quiz, click the button below.