Spiritual Gifts

Let’s talk about spiritual gifts – these are special abilities given to every believer by the Holy Spirit, like superpowers, to help us serve God and others. They’re not for showing off, but for building up the church, which is like a big family of God’s people.

Imagine a team where everyone has a different talent:

• Teaching: Some people have a knack for explaining the Bible clearly, helping others understand God’s word.
• Serving: Others love to roll up their sleeves and help out wherever needed, showing God’s love through practical actions.
• Encouraging: These folks have a way of lifting people up, offering kind words and support when things get tough.
• Giving: Some are generous with their money or possessions, using what they have to bless others and further God’s kingdom.
• Leadership: These people are good at organising and motivating others, keeping things moving smoothly in the church.
• Mercy: These folks have big hearts and show compassion to those who are hurting, offering a listening ear or a helping hand.
• Prophecy: Some people can share God’s messages for the church, reminding us of His truth and calling us to live right.
• Wisdom: These folks have good judgment and insight, helping others make wise decisions and navigate life’s challenges.
• Faith: Some people have a strong belief in God, even when things are hard. Their faith inspires and encourages others.
• Healing: Some are gifted with the ability to pray for others and see them healed from sickness or emotional pain.
• Miracles: These folks can see God do extraordinary things, demonstrating His power and love in amazing ways.
• Tongues and Interpretation: Some can speak in a language they don’t know, while others can understand and explain what’s being said, allowing for communication across cultures.

These are just a few examples. There are many other gifts, and each person is unique. You might even have more than one!

So, how do you find your gifts?

• Pray: Ask God to reveal your gifts and show you how to use them.
• Get Involved: Try serving in different areas of the church, see what comes naturally to you, and what you enjoy.
• Ask Others: Talk to friends, family, and church leaders. They might see things in you that you haven’t noticed yet.

Remember, your gifts aren’t about you, they’re about God working through you to bless others. Use them with love, humility, and a willingness to serve.

The Bible lists spiritual gifts in a few key passages:

To one there is given through the Spirit a message of wisdom, to another a message of knowledge by means of the same Spirit, to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healing bythat one Spirit, to another miraculous powers, to another prophecy, to another distinguishing between spirits, to another speaking in different kinds of tongues, and to still another the interpretation of tongues.

1 Corinthians 12:8-10:

We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your faith; if it is serving, then serve; if it is teaching, then teach; if it is to encourage, then give encouragement; if it is giving, then give generously; if it is to lead, do it diligently; if it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully.

Romans 12:6-8:

So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up

Ephesians 4:11-12:

These are the primary passages that list spiritual gifts, although other verses mention specific gifts in context. It’s important to remember that the lists may not be exhaustive, and the names of gifts might vary slightly in different translations.

I hope this helps! Feel free to ask if you have any more questions.