14 Thank you for making me so wonderfully complex!
Your workmanship is marvelous—how well I know it.
You are a complex living organism in every sense of the word. Our bodies are intricately designed, and in a healthy system every part works together to maintain the balance. In a spiritual sense you were designed to function and flow within the body of Christ. Each member has a function different from the others.
Genesis 1:27
So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them.
Regardless of your gender, you are created in the image of the living God. His people are a reflection of His multifaceted nature. All are gifted and all gifts are intended to build up others, and point back to the creator. In a recent group discussion, one mouthpiece spoke up and pointed out gifts have been planted in you, and been developing since the beginning of your life. Another added that it has probably been evident to others, what your gifting is, and that it is usually something you are just drawn to.
An example was given of a certain disciple in the room who simply can not refrain from telling others about Jesus, where ever she goes. It was widely agreed that her gifting is in the field of evangelism. Though she has not yet, and maybe never will, have large crowds before her, she is operating in this ministry. Gifts of healings are a part of her ministry as well, since that is often a useful tool in the evangelistic outreach. He always provides the tools we need.
All are gifted. We are generally happy doing what we are good at, that is, using the gifts. When we offer ourselves to the lord, He will make room for these gifts, and we will be used to build up others. We are all rocks, building stones, set in the walls of the house of the lord. The house of the lord is not mortar and brick. It is us!!! It is fun to do the things we love, and to do them for the lord causes such deep joy that can only be understood to those who have experienced it. Rest assured this is not exclusive. Anyone who gives themselves to the lord may intimately know the joy of the lord as you yield to Him. To bring God glory and to enjoy fellowship with Him is the reason we exist. When we walk in that there is no longer a feeling that something is missing, or that we are missing out on something someone else has.
If we yield to the flesh we are not yielding to the lord. Matthew 6:24 (Amplified Bible)
24 No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will stand by and be devoted to the one and despise and be [a]against the other. You cannot serve God and mammon ([b]deceitful riches, money, possessions, or [c]whatever is trusted in).
It is good to recognize and admire the gifts in other people, but if we covet their gifts we may overlook what God has called us to do and be. We may be blinded to the gift that is within us. If you attempt to merely mimic another's gift you will fail. This will only contribute to feelings of inadequacy in your self. You are not called to be like anyone else. You are UNIQUE and God wants to use the gift in you. He breathed life into you, and gave you gifts that will bless others. Don't overlook it. You ARE good at certain things, and the more you exercise those things they will develop in you. You can not be compared to anyone else, and if you do you will be disappointed, and will open doors that are better left closed. Do not give a foothold to your enemy. Avoid envy and jealousy for there is no gift elevated above another.
Desire spiritual gifts to bring glory to your God. Function in those unique gifts that have been placed within you. Your enemy is subtle and may try to make you feel as if your gift is not as good as, not as important as, not as charismatic as someone else's. Resist that lie. Satan is the father of lies." So humble yourselves before God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you." James 4:7 We are not in a competition with other believers. The sooner you understand this in your walk, the sooner you will be free to serve the lord without reservation and with out fear of failure. "So if the Son sets you free, you will be absolutely free" John 8:36 (God's Word translation)
Ask the lord, today, even this moment. "Lord what do you want me to do?" Isn't that the same as asking for wisdom? James 1:5 (New International Version) James 1:5 "If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him." God's word is true, and He never goes back on His word. We can count on this. It pleases HIM when we ask for wisdom, because that is obedience to what He told us to do. He WILL show you what He wants of you.
1 Peter 4:7 The end of all things is near. Therefore be clear minded and self-controlled so that you can pray. 8 ABOVE ALL, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. 9 Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling. 10 Each one should USE WHATEVER GIFT he has received TO SERVE OTHERS, faithfully administering God's grace in its various forms. 11 If anyone speaks, he should do it as one speaking the very words of God. If anyone serves, he should do it with the strength God provides, SO THAT IN ALL THINGS GOD MAY BE PRAISED through Jesus Christ. TO HIM be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen.
A final word of caution. When your gift makes room for you, people will praise you. Point them to the lord Jesus Christ. Do not receive the praise and glory to yourself. Do not be puffed up with pride. Proverbs 16:18 Pride goes before destruction, And a haughty spirit before a fall. The Message version clarifies a bit, as well. "First pride, then the crash— the bigger the ego, the harder the fall."
Let's glorify the gift giver and not the gift. TO HIM BE THE GLORY!
Copyright Grayce Pedulla Dillon © 2010
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Talk about unique! The roseate spoonbill has a unique bill that strains small food items out of the water.
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