Gifts of God’s Varied Grace
Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, let us use them: if prophecy, let us prophesy in proportion to our faith; or ministry, let us use it in our ministering; he who teaches, in teaching; he who exhorts, in exhortation; he who gives, with liberality; he who leads, with diligence; he who shows mercy, with cheerfulness. Romans 12:6-8
One misconception that Christians can fall prey to is thinking that the only (or best way) to serve God is by becoming a pastor or a teacher. All believers, however, have the privilege of sharing the good news of Christ with others, though in different ways. In fact, in the verses prior to our text, Paul lays out the reason God provides us different gifts: “For as we have many members in one body, but all the members do not have the same function, so we, being many, are one body in Christ, and individually members of one another.” (Romans 12: 4-6). Believers have different functions within the Christian church here on earth, just like different parts of the body work together in a well-functioning, unified organism.
So, what can we do if we don’t have the God-given gifts or personality for the public ministry? In our text, Paul lists several options. One gift that is often overlooked but is of great importance to our work in God’s Kingdom is exhortation, or encouragement. While all of us can support our fellow believers, some people are particularly blessed with the ability to encourage others. They seem to know the right gesture or words or gift that will help someone feel appreciated and valued. It is hard to overstate the importance of a kind word or thank-you note to called workers and fellow church members.
As we think about how we can use our gifts in service to our LORD, “let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works.” (Hebrews 10:24)
Lord, please give to us encouraging hearts and minds that help support your Kingdom Work. Amen.