Thoughts from daily Bible reading for today- January 17, 2013
“One of the servants answered, “I have seen a son of Jesse of Bethlehem who knows how to play the lyre. He is a brave man and a warrior. He speaks well and is a fine-looking man. And the Lord is with him.” 1 Samuel 16:18
God blesses some of His children with multiple gifts. David is a good example of God’s gifting: musical talent, military valor, communication and writing skills, good looks and most importantly, the Lord’s favor. Indeed, the gifts of God need the favor of God. Yes, there is a stewardship the Spirit expects of the gifts He gives, since much given requires much. The Spirit yearns for a prayerful administration of abilities for God’s Kingdom. Gifts are given for Him.
You may be laboring faithfully on the outskirts of influence, under the radar of where most are focused. Thank the Lord that in your smaller responsibilities you can prepare for larger opportunities. Your gifts take time and intentionality to develop. Therefore, go to great lengths by God’s grace to understand your sweet spot of service for Him. Validate your skills with trusted mentors and peers who can peer into how God has made you. Be comfortable with your gifts.
“To accept their lot and be happy in their toil—this is a gift of God.” Ecclesiastes 5:19
Is the Lord’s hand of favor on your life? Has your character kept up with your success? In the flesh your gifts will flounder, but under the Spirit’s influence they will flourish. Indeed, it takes God’s work of grace in your inner being for the outward effectiveness of your gifts to enjoy the touch of Jesus. If the lion of anger lurks in your heart it needs to be tamed by grace, patience and forgiveness. If fear has erased your confidence, replace it with disciplined faith in Christ’s calling.
Multiple gifts need to be managed prayerfully and productively. So, daily offer your gifts on the altar of the Lord as a sacrifice of praise and worship. When you surrender your abilities to your Savior Jesus, He will multiply them in a timely manner that gives Him the glory. The maturity of your faith will birth additional opportunities to use your gifts. So, wait on the Lord’s work of grace in your heart and His favor will facilitate your multi-giftedness for Him. He will bring opportunities to you, without you having to force matters. Seasoned gifts wait to see God work!
“There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit distributes them.” 1 Corinthians 12:4
Prayer: Heavenly Father, lead me to steward well Your gifts in my life.
Related Readings: Romans 12:4-8; Ephesians 4:11; Hebrews 2:4; 1 Peter 4:10
Post/Tweet today: In our smaller responsibilities we can prepare for larger opportunities. #prepare
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