Day 4: Gifts That Build the Whole

Reading: Romans 12:6-8

 6 We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your[a] faith; 7 if it is serving, then serve; if it is teaching, then teach; 8 if it is to encourage, then give encouragement; if it is giving, then give generously; if it is to lead,[b] do it diligently; if it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully.
 
Footnotes
[a] Romans 12:6 Or the
[b] Romans 12:8 Or to provide for others

Reading: Ephesians 4:11-13

11 So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, 12 to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up 13 until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ.

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Devotional: 
Spiritual gifts are never meant to elevate the individual. They are given to strengthen the entire church and to help every believer grow toward maturity in Christ. Whether your gift is teaching, encouraging, giving, leading, or showing kindness, its purpose is always larger than yourself. Paul makes clear that these gifts will continue to be given until the church reaches the full measure of the standard of Christ. That goal has not yet been reached, which means the gifts are still being given and still urgently needed. Your gift is not optional. The body needs what God has placed in you.

How might the people around you in your church be affected if you chose not to use the gifts God has given you?

Ask a trusted fellow believer what strengths or gifts they observe in you. Compare their answer to where you feel God has been calling you to serve.