Thankful For Spiritual Gifts

 1 Peter 4:7-11

7 But the end of all things is at hand; therefore be serious and watchful in your prayers. 8 And above all things have fervent love for one another, for “love will cover a multitude of sins.” 9 Be hospitable to one another without grumbling. 10 As each one has received a gift, minister it to one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God. 11 If anyone speaks, let him speak as the oracles of God. If anyone ministers, let him do it as with the ability which God supplies, that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom belong the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen.

Spiritual gifts fall into two basic categories: speaking and serving. Neither is more important than the other because both are demonstrations of God’s grace to the church. However, if members are not using their gifts, then the church suffers.

Every believer should be involved in a local church and actively loving the body of Christ. One of the ways we do this is by employing our spiritual abilities for the benefit of others. Those with speaking gifts can teach truth, promote righteousness, and offer correction and encouragement. Serving gifts give practical help so the church can function smoothly and extend personal care and love to its people.

Spiritual gifts aren’t merely some bonus added on top of salvation. They are to be taken seriously and given our full attention. 1 Timothy 4:14-15 says, 

14 Do not neglect the gift that is in you, which was given to you by prophecy with the laying on of the hands of the eldership. 15 Meditate on these things; give yourself entirely to them, that your progress may be evident to all.

But we need never fear that we won’t use our spiritual abilities well. After all, it is God who works through us, and He will enable the Spirit’s gifts to be utilized for both the benefit of others and His glory.

We should never, ever take HIs presence for granted.  God was never required to do such a thing.  In fact, He is really never required to do anything because He is fully God.  With each and every movement that God does, we should be lifting up heartfelt praise of thanksgiving.  God truly does give us everything and with that, our hearts should be full of thanks.

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