Each one of us has God-given unique skills and abilities, commonly referred to as gifts or talents, within the Scriptures. We are meant to use them, build them, and grow them.
We bring glory to God and fulfill His plans for us by using our gifts, but it can be challenging to determine what our gifts are, so we can effectively use them.
If you are not sure what your gifts are here are 5 steps to identify them:
1. Read through this list of spiritual gifts.
The first step is to know what the spiritual gifts even are.
You can read through this list of the spiritual gifts here. Each has a short explanation to familiarize yourself with what to look for.
2. Consistent fellowship with God.
Create a habit of spending quality time with God.
Studies show it takes 21 days to make a behavior become a habit. Figure out what will work for you. Easily distracted? Writing prayers can be a great solution.
Spending time with God each morning is a great way to start the day but do what works best for you. Prayers do not have to be formalized or always done a certain way. The great thing is prayer can happen anywhere at any time!
3. Get into God’s Word.
The Scriptures are God’s Word. Dig in !
If you are not sure where to start, find a good resource for help, just make sure any source you use is founded deeply within the Scripture.
God’s Word is active and alive . Prepare for your mind to be blown and new jewels to be found consistently in this adventure delving into His Word!
4. Ask God to reveal His plan for your life.
But be prepared the answer may not be immediate.
We’re not used to having to wait! We’re the generations who expect action to follow within seconds. If we want to watch a certain show, we can pull it up on demand or through an app with thousands of instantaneous options.
But be patient. It may take years of asking for guidance and revelation. Development may be required to be prepared to take on your role.
5. Stretch!
You may be forced outside your comfort zone and that’s OK.
While you may not want to do what is asked of you, especially if you are concerned what others may think of you and your actions, God knows specifically why He needs it done!
God may need you to become someone you never imagined you would be.
All throughout the Bible, people of faith have said yes to God and look at all they have accomplished!
If you are not familiar with Hebrews 11, (frequently called the Hall of Faith), it is filled with faithful believers who changed the world, just by saying “Yes”!
6. Speak with your Pastor.
If you are still having trouble uncovering your gifts, speak with your pastor or a strong seasoned believer.
They might be able to introduce you to ways to serve within your church where you can use your gifts and through that, you might find that you are drawn to a particular ministry.
We are all part of the Body of Christ, and just like our own physical body, each part has a different function and purpose.
Each part is critical to the body to function fully. The same is true for the Body of Christ.
Once you have direction, start to practice your part. Be willing to learn more and develop your talent so that your part can be as powerful and impactful as possible. Participate, grow, and watch all that will come from pouring yourself into your God-given role in this world.
Bring glory to God by doing His work! When we do what God intended the results will bring glory to Him and make us come alive in a way we never would otherwise!
