Discovering YOUR Foundational Gift

Understanding the specific abilities that our Creator has given to each of us answers a multitude of life’s questions.

• Who is the best person to fill this particular need?
• I’d like to start a business, but what should I do?
• When will I be able to advance to higher positions in my profession?
• I have interests, but don’t know how to use them. Where do I go for help?
• Why don’t I find joy in my work the way I used to, or in the way I thought I would?
• How am I so busy, but still bored or unfulfilled?

Operating with faith and integrity in our spiritual gifts—the strengths, talents, interests and passions that God has instilled in each of us—helps to align all of the areas of our life. When we remain in alignment with God’s word and His call to us, we are much better able to experience a life of abundance, peace and joy (John 10:10).

The spiritual gifts in Romans 12:6-8 are described by scholars as “foundational gifts” and “motivational gifts.” These gifts are ‘foundational’ because each believe
has been given at least one; and they demonstrate how believers are ‘motivated’ to serve others. God gives us a measure of grace to fulfill His call, and a measure of faith to believe Him for it.

Here’s what we know about these spiritual gifts and practical talents:

• Use of the spiritual gifts is an act of worship (Romans 12:1)
• God changes us as we stay in His word and utilize the gifts that He has given us (Romans 12:2a)
• Use of the gifts helps us to understand God’s will (Romans 12:2b)
• Don’t be proud in the gifts; remember, they come from God (Romans 12:3)
• The Body of Christ has many members, each with different functions (Romans 12:4)
• In Christ, we are ONE, united body (Romans 12:5)
• God has given each of us different gifts, in different amounts (Romans 12:6a)
(Adapted from Peter J Barban, http://godskingdomrevealed.blogspot.com/2005/03/spiritual-gifts-series-romans-121-6.html)

Your particular spiritual gifts is not meant to be a mystery, to your or to others. If you are not clear on what your gifts are, these action steps will help in understanding:

• Pray for wisdom and God’s revelation. Submit yourself what God reveals to you.
• Study by reading the descriptions of the gifts in Romans 12: 3-8. See which of these resonate with your demonstrated skills and interests.
• Contribute to others, and offer your gifts up to God as a sacrifice. (v. 13)
• Try or do something different. Don’t be afraid to branch out!
• Prepare to continue to serve with joy, enthusiasm, and prayerful consideration, especially when things get tough (vs. 11-12)
• Seek support from a trusted mentor or Christian life coach

God has entrusted the gifts of prophesy, service, teaching, encouraging, giving, leading, and mercy to the Body of Christ, and to each believer. Consider your service commitment to the Body of Christ, your family, your workplace and your community. How are YOU using your spiritual gifts to bring Him glory?