In one of John Piper’s messages about Spiritual Gifts he mentioned that the Church should be the humblest and happiest place to be on earth.
This is so true. But is this the reality?
He talked about how we use and recognise the gifts and what they are for.
One of the things he mentions is that it isn’t about being able to put a name to the particular gifting in our lives but more about do we recognise the many opportunities where we can make a difference? And do we put it into practise when opportunity arises?
It can be anything of course.
We do come across many differing situations and people in our lives so we will need flexibility and understanding in knowing how to act and use the opportunity before us to put our spiritual gift to good use, be it hospitality, practical help, just a phone call to inquire or cheer someone by sending them a card. What about just being a good listener, speaking kind words to the down cast. What about our input in our children’s lives (for those with family) or just treating a friend to a coffee and cake and who knows what conversations might arise?
At that moment God enables us to use whatever ability or gift He blesses us with.
It’s so easy to loose focus and miss the many oppertunities around us.
The little things in life, those precious moments that are easily lost, are significant and just as big as the bigger events in our lives and/or of those we are connected with.
Another thing J.P mentioned is that what weakens faith in believers is affliction and the spiritual gifts are there to encourage and strengthen the body.
Well, we might nod and say we agree but are we actually being effective? Let’s examine ourselves and make a difference.
In Hebrews 3 vs.13-14 we are told to encourage each other: But exhort one another every day, as long as it is called “today,” that none of you may be hardened by the deceitfulness of sin. For we have come to share in Christ, if indeed we hold our original confidence firm to the end.This is a command. Many saw God’s power at close range and many fell. We need each other. We need the body of Christ, we are part of the body. Let’s help the afflicted believer by using a means of grace and by being one in someone’s life.
Hebrews 4 vs.11-16:
11 Let us therefore strive to enter that rest, so that no one may fall by the same sort of disobedience. 12 For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart. 13 And no creature is hidden from his sight, but all are naked and exposed to the eyes of him to whom we must give account.14 Since then we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus, the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession. 15 For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin. 16 Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.We know how to take care of our physical needs by looking well and decent and be physically active so we also need to spiritually work out for the benefit of the Church and to the Glory of God. Let's aim for our church to be one of the humblest and happiest place to be.
May we continue to make a difference and be a blessing to each other.
God bless.
Cynthia
