EQUIPPED TO SERVE
1 Peter 4:10-11
1 Peter 4:10: “Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God’s grace in all its various forms.”
Apostle Paul says in 1 Corinthians 7:7b, “But each man has his own gift from God; one has this gift, another has that.” He wasn’t slighting girls. St. Peter is clear in the opening Scripture that each one (believer-in-Christ) receives a gift.
The same Peter says in Acts 2:37b, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.” So every Christian has one gift that’s identical to all other Christians.
After learning from Believers’ Calling devotion that the assignment from our Master is to serve, isn’t it great to learn that God equips each person for service? Let’s pause one moment. The same Creator of the universe calls on every one of His believers to be His servant—in order to carry out His work on earth!
This is not only a gigantic, but critical responsibility. Let’s take it seriously.
God needs nothing. Nothing is impossible for God. And yet, He calls on us—His children and ambassadors—to draw people to Himself and guide them to spiritual maturity. As His servants, we help those in need.
This requires that believers put ourselves under God’s authority.
Believers are to listen for God’s commands and obey them.
On our own, this task is beyond what humans can manage. Remember the one gift who is the same for every believer? The Holy Spirit is the common denominator that provides power and strength. He is God’s mouthpiece.
When we obey God, He supplies all that we need.
This begins with Christ-like character. Self-serving hearts are transformed into hearts of a servant. Meeting others’ needs becomes our delight. So many needs! God appoints some to be apostles. Are you Jesus’ disciple? Some are teachers.
Still other people are assigned to perform miracles! Yes, God is still in the miracle business.
Take Home Nugget
Let’s be clear: if you believe in God and His Son Jesus, you have an invitation to serve Him. God’s Spirit is in you providing strength and power. Another gift is also yours. Do you know what that is? Are you willing to serve Almighty God?
The biggest adventure possible is to partner with God in His work here on earth. He supplies everything. Let’s use our gifts to influence others for Christ. What do you say? Other gifts are listed in the lesson, linked below.
Help me Father, for I’m afraid. Strengthen me, Holy Spirit. Help me to be willing to do the work for Your kingdom.
J.D. Griffith
Written for http://www.Biblestudyforkids.
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