Christian, you have been given at least one spiritual gift so you can partner with other Christ-followers to continue God’s work here on earth. Do you know what your gift is? Are you using it? Show
How do I know what my spiritual gift is?If you have truly repented of your sin and asked Jesus to be your Lord and Savior (learn more here), then you have at least one spiritual gift.
There are several ways to discover your spiritual gift(s). I recommend using a bit of each in this order: 1. PrayIt sounds simple, but I am afraid many people skip this important step. Pray and ask God to show you what your spiritual gift is. 2. Learn about Spiritual GiftsWhat are the different spiritual gifts? What types of gifts are there? How do they work together? We will be looking at all of these questions in our blog posts this month. 3. Take a Spiritual Gift InventoryThere are lots of spiritual gift tests or inventories from which you may choose. Here is one, “Gifted 2 Serve” by BuildingChruch.com, I have used for adults. I especially like its explanations of the gifts. Remember that these spiritual gift tests or inventories are only starting points. The results you get are not the final word. It is simply a place to begin your investigation. You have to try different things and use your gifts to really know what they are. 4. Try gifts on for sizeHow do you know you don’t have the gift of teaching, for example, unless you try it? The same could be said of each of the gifts. Spiritual gifts can surprise you because they are by nature God working through you. For example, I’ve said before that I get very nervous when I am going to be in front of a group of my peers. I get nervous enough that people around me notice. Just before I speak, sing, or teach in public, I can’t sit still. I don’t like to talk to anyone because I am trying to give myself a pep-talk. I am visibly nervous. But, a funny thing happens when I step out and begin to teach. The Holy Spirit takes over. I have prepared, prayed, and practiced, but when I actually speak, it’s like none of that matters. I have a “peace that passes understanding” (a peace and calm that doesn’t make sense apart from God, Philippians 4:7). This only happens when I am teaching from the Bible. As you try different spiritual gifts, ask yourself these questions:
I recommend trying something at least 2-3 times. You need to know for sure that the first time was not just a fluke. HELPFUL HINT: Many churches are desperate for teachers and leaders because those called to serve have not stepped up to do so. If you don’t want to be locked into something you later find is not a good fit, talk with the director before you start. Ask to try it for about 3 weeks. You can also ask to observe someone else once or twice before you begin. If you and the director know what to expect going in, you will have less trouble saying no if it is not a good fit. Look for our blog post later this month about what to do if you are currently serving in a position that is not a good fit. 5. Look and listen for feedbackWhen you are gifted in something, people will notice and tell you. Not just one or two people either. If people keep telling you that you are good at something, it may be because it is one of your spiritual gifts. Now go do it!Ok. We’ve looked at the 5 steps to discovering your spiritual gifts. Knowing how is not enough. Now it is time for you to take action. Have fun and may God bless you as you discover your spiritual gifts!
This post is part of a Titus 2 Tuesday Linkup Party hosted by Cornerstone Confessions. How do I know what spiritual gifts I have?6 Signs You Have A Spiritual Gift. You read into your dreams on the regular.. You have visions—and they often come true.. You have a 4 a.m. bathroom habit.. Nightmares keep you tossing and turning.. You're extremely empathetic.. You have a strong intuition.. How do I know my gifts from God?Discover Your Gifts. Ask others to let you know. Sometimes we don't see in ourselves what others can see in us. ... . Look for gifts in adversity. ... . Pray for the help to recognize your gifts. ... . Don't be afraid to branch out. ... . Search the word of God. ... . Look outside yourself. ... . Think about people you look up to. ... . Reflect on your family.. How do I discern my spiritual gifts?If you are unsure of yours, consider reading a book like “Living Your Strengths” and taking its personality-assessing quiz, or asking those close to you what natural talents they see in you. Take those to prayer and ask God to help you use the gifts he has placed within you.
What are the 7 major gifts from God?The seven gifts of the Holy Spirit are an enumeration of seven spiritual gifts first found in the book of Isaiah, and much commented upon by patristic authors. They are: wisdom, understanding, counsel, fortitude, knowledge, piety, and fear of the Lord.
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