Last week we started our first session of Dave Ramsey’s Financial Peace University program. During the instructional video, one of the financial counselors was talking about her own personal experience with money as she meekly expressed, “she was living in her strengths” when she was spending money. This reminded me of one of the verses Dad used to encourage all of the new and existing Deacons to rededicate ourselves to service for the church.
Romans 12:6-8 (NIV) 6We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your faith; 7if it is serving, then serve; if it is teaching, then teach; 8if 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.
Think about this list of gifts and imagine the kinds of people who would have each gift. It would be difficult for one person to embody all of these gifts. At the same time, realize that your own gifts cannot do the work of the church all alone. Be thankful for people whose gifts are completely different from your own and look for ways to let your strengths balance their weaknesses. Be grateful for others with abilities that make up your own deficiencies, together we can build Christ’s church.
God’s gifts differ in nature and purpose according to His wisdom and graciousness, not according to our faith. Our role is to be faithful and to seek ways to serve others with what Christ has given us.
Are you living in your strengths?
