(1 Timothy 4:14: Do not neglect the gift that is in you, which was given to you by prophecy with the laying on of the hands of the eldership’.
We need to understand the gifts, talents and grace of God upon our lives if we are ever going to live fulfilling and satisfying lives here on earth. This will be the focus of our study in this series of lessons. This is why I believe Apostle Paul encouraged Timothy not to neglect the gift of God in his life in (I Timothy 4:14). He wanted him to regard and pay attention to what he had. In the same vein, you too need to know your gifts; otherwise, how can it be of benefit to you and the world at large?
Basic Truths About Your Gift(s)
i. You did not do anything to earn or deserve your gift. Yes, this may look strange but it’s absolutely true! Whatever gift you have today was freely given to you. It came by grace, that’s why it’s called a “gift.” Therefore, nobody has any reason(s) to boast or glory in their gift (Luke 19:13). Are you boastful about your gift(s) or grateful about them?
ii. Your gift(s) operates in the same way as money operates. You have heard the saying “money is a good messenger but a bad master.” The first part of this saying simply means that money can work for you if you know how to put it to the best use. In fact, money works better than we do as human beings. In the same vein, your gift is capable of extraordinary things if you know how to put it to work. This is what the parable of the talents in (Matthew 25:14-30) is all about and in fact, the word “talent” is actually “money.” – The servant who invested their talents (money) well got a greater return than the servant who did nothing. My dear reader, what are you doing about your gift(s)?
iii. Our gift(s) are not the same. We don’t all have or exhibit the same talents (1Corinthians 12: 4-6). Even among people who seem to have similar gifting, you will notice some differences in the way they operate. So, why do we have different talents?
Our gifts differ because:
– Our calling and vocation is not the same. We are not called to the same thing.
– Our capacities are not the same. Some people have a greater capacity than others because of their experience, exposure and expertise (Matthew 25:14).
– We are different and this is what makes everyone to be unique and special. Precious child of the Most High, I hope you can now see the reason why you were made different! You were made different to make a difference! It’s time to make a difference with your gift(s).
Other Scriptural References: (Romans 12:6; 11:29; Ephesians 3:7-8; 1Cor.15:10; Galatians 2:9).
Prayer for Today: Precious Holy Spirit, thank you for opening my eyes to the truths about my talents and gifts. I acknowledge my gifts and I receive grace to use it for your glory in Jesus name, amen.
CONFESSION: Lord, I am grateful for your gifts in my life. I know that I do not deserve them but you bestowed them on me by grace. Therefore, I acknowledge the gifts you have blessed me with. I do not take it for granted or lightly. I am not envious or jealous of another person’s gift because I know I have mine and they are special and unique. As I cooperate with your Spirit, I will manifest my gifts to the glory of your name.
Yemi Adeoti is a pastor, teacher, life coach and mentor & also a prolific writer.
Amen