DEVOTION – DAY 51

1 Peter 4:10 – “Being faithful stewards”

 

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 its various forms.”

The apostle Peter in writing the above verse was certain that Jesus Christ would return. Since Jesus Christ can come back at any time, it is important that we make good use of the time we have to love and serve one another, and to make full use of the spiritual gifts that God has given to us. Through the Holy Spirit, God has given every believer one or more spiritual gifts. God expects every believer to use the spiritual gifts that He has given to serve His people and to build His church.

What are spiritual gifts? You can find spiritual gifts mentioned in 1 Cor.12; Romans 12; Ephesians 4; and 1 Peter 4. Among the many spiritual gifts mentioned include the gifts of administration, discernment, encouragement, evangelism, giving, healing, hospitality, intercession, leadership; mercy; prophecy, teaching, preaching, wisdom and so on. God gives us one or more of these gifts when we become Christians and He expects us to use these gifts to serve others and to serve Him. But are we willing to obey and use what has been given to us to serve others and serve His church?

We have heard people give these reasons for not using their gifts to serve others and the Church. They say, “We are too busy with our jobs and careers.” “We do not have the experience and we lack confidence.” “We do not have the time.” “We are afraid we will not do a good job.” “Can you ask someone else?” When people give such reasons, it means that 1) they may not believe that God had equipped them to serve others 2) they could serve when it is more convenient and not when there is a need 3) they do not believe or trust that God will enable them to serve. They are in danger of failing to be faithful stewards of God’s spiritual gifts entrusted to them.

On the other hand, we have also met Christians willing to use whatever spiritual gifts that God had given them to serve the church and God’s people. They may not be skillful in their serving when they start but they were willing that when God calls them to service, they know that God would equip and help them for the good of others and for His glory. So, are you using the spiritual gifts that God has given you to serve Him and others?

 

Let us pray: Heavenly Father, thank you for equipping us to serve others and to build up your Church. Help us to use our gifts wisely and to trust that whatever we do for you will multiply greatly. In Jesus Christ name we pray. Amen.

 

Questions

  1. What spiritual gifts do you believe God has given you?
  2. How are you using these spiritual gifts to serve God? How have others been blessed when these gifts have been used?
  3. If you are unable to use one or some of these spiritual gifts, what is preventing you from using them?