Romans 12:6-8 We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your faith; 7 if it is serving, then serve; if it is teaching, then teach; 8 if it is to encourage, then give encouragement; if it is giving, then give generously; if it is to lead, do it diligently; if it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully.
God gives each of us unique gifts, talents, and strengths. We are each different. One of the most challenging things of our lives is to discover these and use them in a way that benefits others, especially in God’s desire for the church. Paul lists different so-called “spiritual gifts” in this passage. Prophesying is speaking forth a word from God. It may include warnings and promises about the future, but it is always directed to a response in the present. Christian prophecy is somehow focused on Jesus Christ and proclaiming the gospel. There is so Christian “prophecy” which is not Christian but human guesswork. Prophecy always calls us back to relationship with God in Christ. Serving is giving of oneself in helping others. It naturally requires humility, like Jesus showed in going to the cross (Philippians 2:5-11). Thus, to serve, one must develop the mind of Christ. Teaching is being able to explain complex truths of God’s word to people in a way they can understand and respond. Encouragement involves helping people acknowledges God’s grace at work in their lives. Giving is having the selfless mindset that sees the needs of others and goes out of the way to help those needs be met, through time, money, or service. Leadership requires the courage to step out in faith with the goal of moving a situation or persons forward into God’s plan for them. Mercy is the deep feeling of compassion and letting this feeling move one to action in helping others. The key to all of this is faith and trusting ourselves to God’s care as living sacrifices (vv. 1-2), being open to be used by God for his kingdom.
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