Do you know what your spiritual gifts are? Do you use them? Read 1 Timothy 4: 11-16. Paul reminded Timothy not to neglect his spiritual gifts. Scripture reveals that the Holy Spirit may give spiritual gifts as believers pray. Jesus prayed for and breathed on His disciples and imparted the new life of the Holy Spirit to them. In Samaria, the apostles prayed for new believers, laid hands on them, and the Holy Spirit filled them. In Ephesus, Paul laid hands on some of the disciples and prayed for them, and the Holy Spirit filled them. God’s holy people pray today, filled with the Spirit and faith; God continues to impart spiritual gifts to bless His Church, reach the lost, and glorify His name.
We don’t know what Timothy’s gifts were; we know he was reminded to use them. Using our gifts is also important to remember. We need to stir them up and fan them into flame. The spiritual gifts God gives are the key to the spiritual fruit God desires.
How can we stir up our spiritual gifts? Paul reminded Timothy to stir up his spiritual gifts – fans coals or fire into flame. We do this by paying attention to them. We fan our gifts by using them. How do we find what our gifts are? Paul gives four lists of spiritual gifts. Read Romans 12:6-8, 1 Corinthians 12:8-11, 1 Corinthians 12:27-31, and Ephesians 4:11-13. Each list is from a different point of view. In Ephesians 4:11-12, what are the 4 or 5 types of people Christ gives as gifts to the church? How do the four lists of gifts in Ephesians 4, 1 Corinthians 12, and Romans 12 differ? How are they alike?
If you look online, you can take spiritual gifts tests for free and see your gifts. What are your spiritual gifts? How can you stir them up and use them? How can you apply 1 Timothy 4:15-16 to your life (compare it to Matthew 5:22)? What are some ways that Paul wants Timothy to be diligent?
Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank you for all the lavish things you give to each of us. Your love, grace, and gifts. I pray that we will seek to learn what gifts you have given to us and to use them for your glory.
In Jesus Name
Amen
