“It was he who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers, to prepare God’s people for works of service.”
Ephesians 4:11-12
When I was a kid on long car trips, I used to entertain myself by picking fights with my younger brother but then would stop right before my parents turned around to scold us. My brother often took the rap, simply because my sense of timing was better than his.
The Bible speaks of us using our gifts to serve the Lord—the very opposite of a child using her “talents” for her own advantage or to harass others. Our King ascended and poured out gifts on His people to be used until His return. Now instead of causing trouble while we wait, we find ourselves equipped with gifts for serving and building up the body of Christ.
At home, in our neighborhoods, at school or work, in our church settings, we step up to serve when our gifts are needed, or step aside when another is better suited for the task.
This is both humbling and encouraging, reminding us that we—though a necessary part of the team—are not the stars of the show. A joyful unity emerges so that at the end of the day we give thanks together for what God has enabled us to accomplish.
The Bible speaks of us using our gifts to serve the Lord—the very opposite of a child using her “talents” for her own advantage or to harass others. Our King ascended and poured out gifts on His people to be used until His return. Now instead of causing trouble while we wait, we find ourselves equipped with gifts for serving and building up the body of Christ.
At home, in our neighborhoods, at school or work, in our church settings, we step up to serve when our gifts are needed, or step aside when another is better suited for the task.
This is both humbling and encouraging, reminding us that we—though a necessary part of the team—are not the stars of the show. A joyful unity emerges so that at the end of the day we give thanks together for what God has enabled us to accomplish.
Scripture Focus
2 Peter 3:10-13
Insight
“You ought to live holy and godly lives as you look forward to the day of God and speed its coming.” (2 Peter 3:11-12)
Bible In A Year
- Judges 10-11
- Psalm 114
- 1 Corinthians 5-6
