“If it is encouraging, devote yourself to encouraging others. If it is sharing, share generously. If it is leading, lead enthusiastically. If it is helping, help cheerfully. ” – Romans 12:8 (ISV)
Our gifts differ according to the grace God has given to us. Meaning, God gives different gifts to different individuals and provides the necessary strength or ability to use with whatever gifts we have. Romans 12:8 mentions just a few of these gifts. As I ponder about this verse, I ask myself “Have I been a good steward of my God-given gifts?” With such a question and as I examined myself, I know, I failed Him. There are times that I allow my negative feelings to prevail and affect my actions. Proverbs 4:23 reminded me to always guard my heart above all else. Reflection on areas of my life where I lacked recently:
- I must always seek encouragement from His Word or not hesitate to seek counsel from other mature believers when I am emotionally down for me to become an effective encourager to others.
- Weariness of the circumstances sometimes dampens my enthusiasm to lead especially in the workplace. Rom 12:3 says, “Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the measure of faith God has given you.” He will take control of everything, and He must be my driving force, for me to continue to bloom where He has placed me.
- Maintain that attitude of cheerfulness when extending help to others, keep on helping for God’s glory.
Heavenly Father, thank you for the power of your Word to correct, rebuke, and teach us when we sin. May we always remember that the strength to exercise our gifting always comes from You. Thank you for Your grace. Amen.
