Gifted for a Reason

Everyone has a spiritual gift given by God, though it might not be obvious at first. Our doubts and past failures can make it difficult to recognize or use these gifts. We often hesitate because we compare ourselves to others or focus on our mistakes. But God intends for us to use our gifts to fulfill His purpose. Ultimately, the key is to have confidence in our faith in Christ and embrace the new identity He gives us. By changing how we see ourselves through Christ, we can move beyond hesitation and start using our spiritual gifts as God intends.

The gospel is more than saying the right words or acting a certain way (see Ex. 4:10). If our actions truly show God’s love, they will make a difference. By accepting God’s redeeming grace, we are shaped into His people. As Paul wrote: “But we all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as by the Spirit of the Lord” (2 Cor. 3:18). Our spiritual gifts grow from what God has done and is doing in our lives. While they are not the only way to build His kingdom, they show God’s grace at work. Ultimately, spiritual gifts are the gospel put into action.

Prophecy and Our Church Identity

Prophecy is a perfect example of a spiritual gift that embodies two important aspects of the gospel. The first is what most people think of prophecy as—predicting the future. As we can see in Scripture, there are themes of redemption, the destruction of evil, and things that will come to pass (Isa. 53:3-7; Rev. 20:10-15; Dan. 2:31-45). Prophecy shows that God is at work in the world and is sovereign over history and the future. This should come as a great encouragement that God is actively addressing the issues of evil and the promise of salvation. But telling the future is only one part of the work God does through prophecy. 

The second aspect of prophecy is encouragement (1 Cor. 14:3). It is not only about understanding symbols and dates. The purpose of prophecy is to give hope and strengthen God’s people. In a world full of wars, hate, and decay with no end in sight, prophecy gives us strength within our hearts.

Prophecy is, in essence, about the revelation of God’s character. Prophecy is central to our identity as Seventh-day Adventists. Our heritage comes from deep study of the prophecies about Jesus’ soon return. If prophecy is about understanding the future and sharing such revelation, we, as Seventh-day Adventists, are to edify and preach what has been revealed to us. When we share the gospel through the three angels’ messages, it offers hope to people. It should give us greater urgency to do more for God as we wait for His return. Even if we personally do not have the gift of prophecy, we can share the message, offering a lasting peace that overshadows the troubles of this world.

Spiritual Gifts, a Responsibility

Our spiritual gifts aren’t just personality traits—they are meant to be used. Sometimes, as we learn about these gifts, we focus too much on ourselves. Instead we should ask how we can use our gifts right now to help others.

Spiritual gifts are the gospel put into action.

Sometimes it’s easy to let others take on this responsibility. We grow stronger by using our gifts in faith, yet we often leave the work to pastors or evangelists. Even though pastors may be knowledgeable and inspiring, Paul reminds us that we are all part of the body of Christ (1 Cor. 12:27).

When we doubt our abilities, we overlook what God has given us. Don’t sell yourself short—your identity is in Christ. When we lose confidence or make mistakes, we shouldn’t hold back our gifts. Christ gave the greatest gift: Himself. If you have accepted this gift, you should share it. You are a new creation, so live out that new identity.

We will sometimes fail. But the more we use our spiritual gifts, the more opportunities we give God to work through us in the lives of others. Our actions open doors for God to move in ways we might not expect. As we learn from our mistakes and strengthen our gifts, love continues to guide our use of our gifts.

Love Is Active

First John 4:8 tells us that God is love. We can see a lack of love in the world today. There is such a great vacuum that many turn away from God. Without receiving the God of love, the world becomes a place without hope, where love cannot thrive. That is why we see so much doubt, anger, and sadness around us.

When we place our hope in the Lord’s return, we gain both strength and urgency to share the gospel. We visualize the goal and the desired results of our work. This gives us hope, and without hope, faith cannot grow.

Love is the foundation. Hope and faith extend a helping hand to those who need it. Spiritual gifts carry love, hope, and faith to others. Paul was passionate about serving God, and he used practical ways to share the gospel. This is especially important for those who don’t believe yet. The truth is simple and can cut through confusion. Even one act of kindness can reveal the beauty of salvation. As we wait for Jesus to return, let us follow Paul’s example and seek to love others (1 Cor. 14:1).

Conclusion

You are a living example of God’s healing power. Your spiritual gifts matter when they are used to serve others and are motivated by love, hope, and faith. Find your gift and use it with confidence, trusting that God works through you when you act in faith. When faith, hope, and love are present, love stands out and leads the way.

Even when everything else fades, love helps us keep going. God’s love sustains us, so we do not need to be afraid. He is always with us. When opportunities come, don’t be afraid or doubt yourself. Serve God with confidence. Share your gifts. Share the gospel.