We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your faith; if it is serving, then serve; if it is teaching, then teach; if 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. Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good.

Throughout the Bible we have seen people use their God-given gifts in various ways. David used his gift of music to soothe the heart of King Saul. In Solomon’s time, skilled craftsman used their gifts to build God’s temple and the Ark of the Covenant. We have also seen gifts used for evil purposes. The advisor’s to King Darius, presumably men of wisdom and skilled in persuasion, convinced the king to pass an edict that made everyone worship him. This resulted in a law that his friend and top advisor, Daniel, into the lion’s den. Saul/Paul of Tarsus used his physical and legal gifts for evil, in persecuting the church of Jesus, before his conversion experience.

And so here Paul teaches on the gifts God gives us. And the overall message is to use our gifts not to primarily benefit ourselves, but to bless others. And when we give, we must do it in love, with sincere purpose. We must not allow the wonderful gifts God has given us to be used to build the kingdom of darkness, in any way, on this earth. And what builds the kingdom of darkness? Self-serving people who allow the lies of the Devil to slowly permeate their hearts and minds. They are his tools without always even realizing it. Instead, we must guard our hearts with God’s Word and His Spirit must live and thrive there.

Lord, I offer up my skills and gifts to you. May you use them for your glory, in whatever ways seem best to you. May they help accomplish your kingdom priorities and your will and your ways. You will and you ways always result in goodness filling our hearts and rejoicing ringing out from our lungs!