Spiritual Gifts

Romans 12:6--"Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, let us use them.

First, what are spiritual gifts? Spiritual gifts are the way that we serve the church.  The church is often referred to as the "body"; (1 Corinthians:12) Christ being the "head" of the church and everyone else having specific "body parts" or roles to fulfill the needs of the church. Just like with our bodies, each part is important to make the body work as a whole. Each person in the church has a unique role or gift that helps the church properly function. 

God is the one who gave us each a gift designed specifically for us. (1 Corinthians 12:18- But in fact God has placed the parts in the body, every one of them, just as he wanted them to be.)

Now that we know what spiritual gifts are and why we have them, how do you know what spiritual gift you have? One way is to pray about it and ask God to reveal it to you. Another is by filling out a questionnaire. I did one Here.  (I know there are others out there and maybe better ones but this is one I found and it was pretty accurate) It revealed that my two dominant gifts are showing mercy and pastoring/shepherding.  It then goes on to explain what each of these mean and how to use my gifts in the church.   

Showing Mercy-having compassion for those in need and rejoicing with those who are happy, being soft-spoken,  a good listener, etc.  It also stated that I would be good at being a greeter or a hospitality person at church... I am already on the hospitality team at church! :)

Pastoring/Shepherding-being a teacher, caring for the needs of others, spending time praying for others and being very patient. It stated that I would be good at being a Sunday school teacher or nursery worker. Again, I am already a nursery worker at church! :)

After you have discovered your spiritual gift(s), it is time to develop your gift and use it for God's service! 

1 Peter 4:10--"Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God's grace in it's various forms."


Do you know what spiritual gift God has given you? If so, how are you using your gift to better serve God, the church and others?