I look out into my surroundings and those that are around me and notice that there are those that are excelling in areas I wish I was able to excel. They seem to have a knack for success in those areas, financial, relational, physical. I see them with the natural ability to and are recognized as a go to person in those areas. I find myself envious of them and want only to be like them.
“4Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; 5and there are varieties of service, but the same Lord; 6and there are varieties of activities, but it is the same God who empowers them all in everyone. 7To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good.” — 1 Corinthians 12:4-7 (ESV)
This morning I was reminded that not everyone is given the same gifts. If they were, then who would excel in the other areas where work is needed for Christ. Someone has to do the other work. And God will give the gifts to those who need them to complete and excel in that work.
I think even to myself and what my gifts that are given by God and how I use them to do the work He assigns me. I am a teacher. I have been given the gift of teaching. I have been successful in leading classrooms and individuals in their growth and development, whether that is in the world, or as relates to God’s Word. I sit here this morning giving my thoughts on this subject, not only to share them, but in hopes that someone will read and be led to pick up God’s Word, study and learn more on their own. I may not see the fruit of the labor I have been doing as in keeping with my role, I only sow the seeds for Christ and allow Him to cultivate and work with that seed in the others lives.
My gifts are not to be compared to anyone’s. I have been made and grown into the person and Christ follower I am for the glory of God. He has given me a gift that will make work He has assigned for me effective in the completion of that work. I am unique in that regard and should only look to how I am able to use my given gifts for His glory and nothing else.
What comparisons are you making with your gifts to those of others? Are you looking with envy on others and what appears to come easy to them? What if you simply accepted the gifts give to you and worked to use those gifts solely for the glory of God?
Trevor's Thoughts 