We will continue the theme of serving the kingdom this week.

Jesus tells us in 1 Corinthians 12:7 that we are all given at least one spiritual gift. Our spiritual gifts are specific ways that the Holy Spirit works in our lives according to God’s purpose. These gifts, along with our interests, abilities, hobbies, likes, and dislikes, come together to form who we are and how we participate in the work God is doing all around us.

These gifts, however, aren’t just for ourselves. We’re called to use them to serve others as good stewards of God’s grace (1 Peter 4:10). God takes who He made us to be and matches it with the needs of others.

As we continue to grow, we’ll naturally develop deep care for other people. Our attention will turn away from our own needs to the needs of others (Galatians 5:13).

The Gospel is enacted through local churches all around the world. It is through actions like opening doors, holding babies, pouring coffee, and praying for others that we discover how we are made and how the Lord can use us.

We should also serve outside the church, meeting the needs of others where they are. Volunteer at a local shelter or soup kitchen. As you serve outside the church, you may be the only piece of Jesus that others see in their day.

By serving others, we are awarded the opportunity to know more about who God made us to be. We learn our likes and dislikes. What we can and can’t do well. God will fill in the picture as we discover more about ourselves. He will continue to grow us while He uses us to meet the needs of others.

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