God has given each of you a gift from His great variety of spiritual gifts. Use them well to serve one another” – 1 Peter 4:10.
In this powerful verse, Peter reminds us that every believer has been entrusted with unique gifts from God. No two gift combinations are alike—this is by divine design. The diversity of gifts within the body of Christ reflects God’s infinite creativity and wisdom. These gifts aren’t meant to be hidden away or used for personal glory but to serve others in love.
Reflecting on this truth in my pastoral ministry, I’m often struck by how many believers underestimate their spiritual gifts or compare themselves to others. But Peter’s words challenge us to recognize that every gift—teaching, hospitality, administration, or encouragement—is valuable in God’s kingdom. The key isn’t the type of gift but how faithfully we steward it in service to others.
Being a ‘good steward’ means recognizing that our gifts are on loan from God. We’re managers, not owners. This perspective transforms how we view and use our gifts, leading to humility and intentionality in serving others. As stewards, we are entrusted with the care and use of God’s gifts and are accountable to Him for how we use them. This understanding should shape our attitudes and actions toward our gifts.
Do you have the gift of speaking? Then speak as though God Himself were speaking through you. Do you have the gift of helping others? Do it with all the strength and energy that God supplies. Then everything you do will bring glory to God through Jesus Christ. All glory and power to Him forever and ever! Amen” – 1 Peter 4:11.
This verse provides practical guidance for the use of our gifts. For those with the gift of speaking—whether through preaching, teaching, or encouragement—there’s a sobering responsibility to ensure our words align with God’s truth. We’re called to be channels of God’s message, not creators of our own.
When Peter mentions serving “with all the strength and energy that God supplies,” he reminds us that we don’t serve in our power. This is crucial because serving others can be emotionally and physically exhausting. But when we draw from God’s infinite strength rather than our limited resources, we find endurance, joy, and fulfillment in our service.
The ultimate purpose of our gifts is beautifully clear: to bring glory to God through Jesus Christ. Every act of service, every word spoken in love, and every gift utilized faithfully create a symphony of praise to our Creator. We’re not serving to build our reputation or to earn God’s favor—we already have that through Christ. Instead, we serve as a response to His grace, allowing His love to flow through us to others.
As we close this reflection, let us challenge ourselves by recognizing and valuing our spiritual gifts, embracing those unique abilities that allow for a richer spiritual experience and foster a greater sense of purpose. A solid starting point is to:
1. Identify and embrace your unique spiritual gifts
2. Look for opportunities to serve others this week
3. Remember to serve in God’s strength, not your own
4. Keep your focus on glorifying God, not on ourselves
May we be faithful stewards of God’s varied opportunities, serving one another in love and bringing glory to His name through Jesus Christ.
Heavenly Father, thank You for the unique gifts You have given me, a reflection of Your great wisdom and creativity. Help me to use these gifts with humility and love, always seeking to serve others and bring glory to Your name. Strengthen me with Your power so I may faithfully steward these gifts, trusting in Your guidance and grace. Amen.