I remember when I first heard the term “spiritual gifts” in a sermon. The pastor described them as the ways in which we serve God using our talents and abilities. And I thought, what is my spiritual gift?
My parents signed me up for piano lessons when I was six. And I continued to play into my teenage years, taking Royal Conservatory exams and practicing long hours. When I was asked to join a worship team at my church, I accepted, not fully understanding the significance of what I was doing. I was joining with fellow Christian musicians to worship God and encourage others to worship. And I realized my spiritual gift is serving and encouraging others in the Body of Christ. The Holy Spirit uses my ability to play the piano for this purpose. Wow!
There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit distributes them. There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord. There are different kinds of working, but in all of them and in everyone it is the same God at work…just as a body, though one, has many parts, but all its many parts form one body, so it is with Christ . (1 Corinthians 12:4–6, 12 NIV)
All believers have spiritual gifts, whether you are gifted in serving, encouraging, or teaching others. God has given you talents and abilities to use your spiritual gift, which is different from another’s, making up the Body of Christ. Maybe you haven’t discovered yours but have the abilities/talents God can use. It’s humbling to know God has uniquely equipped you so the Holy Spirit can do great work through you.
In his article called “Spiritual Gifts,” Bob Deffinbaugh explains it’s important to know your gift since every Christian plays a role in the Body of Christ. He writes, “Your spiritual gifts equip you to carry out this function.”1
The Church is made up of unique people with different abilities and talents and God has a place for everyone to serve. Consider how your gift might relate to your abilities. And like myself, through even a willingness to be used, you can discover what your spiritual gift is and be blessed in using it.
1. http://bible.org/seriespage/spiritual-gifts-1-corinthians-12:1-11 Copyright 1975, Harold Shaw Publishers
