Have you ever considered that the very use of your gift brings glory to God, if it is used properly? This week I am so excited to share one of my favorite passages of Scripture. Check this out:
“As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace: whoever speaks, as one who speaks oracles of God; whoever serves, as one who serves by the strength that God supplies – in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. To him be glory and dominion forever and ever” (I Peter 4:10-11).
According to Peter, the context of this verse is related to the end of time. Verse 7 indicates, “The end of all things it at hand; therefore…” Following is a list of what we should do because the end is near: be self-controlled, sober-minded, love one another, show hospitality, and…use the gift you have been given.
There is a way to use your gift so that is brings glory to God, or in such a way that it dishonors God. According to our passage, here are two clues that we are bringing glory to God through the use of our gifts:
- using our gifts to serve one another
- realizing we are stewards of God’s grace
Is it not amazing to realize that the gifts you have are displays of God’s grace to the world? They are meant to showcase His worth, not yours. When we serve one another through His strength, we bring glory to God. If we use our gift in a self-seeking manner, we do not.
Verse 11 reveals God’s goal for God’s distributed gifts – so that “in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ.” Allow God’s Word to penetrate your heart as you realign your foundation for serving.
Spend some time reflecting on this question – “What is the goal of my gifts?”