Week 6 | Wednesday
Wednesday – Uniquely You
Written by Brian Hutton (Pickerington Campus)
Ephesians 4:7-10
Key Verse
“But to each one of us grace has been given as Christ apportioned it.” (7)
Far too often, I think people want to be different just to be different. You know – the kids in school who would say their favorite color is coral blue. They could have just said blue and moved on with their day, but they had to be different from everyone else. We get it, Suzy – you want to be unique (The name Suzy just came to mind – if your name is Suzy, I’m sure you are a lovely person). But again, I think there are times when people want to be different for the sake of being different; however, there are also times when being different is extremely important and even valuable. One of those times where being different and unique is valuable is in the conversation around the family of God.
Following the discussion of unity in the family of God from the previous verses, Paul now shifts his focus in verse seven to the uniqueness of each believer. Paul writes that “grace” has been given to each follower of Jesus. However, this “grace” is not saving or sanctifying grace but rather ministry grace. Paul uses this word elsewhere to refer to what is given to believers for corporate service and the building up of the church. In essence, Paul is saying that believers are to be unified AND unique with their distinct roles and gifts.
These individual giftings are purposed for the greater good of the church. Think about it – you have been given a spiritual gift from God Himself to use for His glory and the good of His people! When we understand the message Paul is communicating, our response should be to utilize the gift God has given us and play our part! The tragedy is that many of our gifts are sitting on the sideline – unused for the glory of God and the good of His people.
Here’s the thing: I know it can be hard when you are unsure of the gifts that God has given you. But please – don’t let “I don’t know my gifting” be the reason you don’t serve God’s people. If you are unsure, pick a ministry and start serving. You are far more likely to discover your gift by searching for it than by sitting on the sidelines. God’s people need you to use the gifts He’s given you! So play your part – and even if you don’t know exactly what that is yet, take a step toward finding out.
Reflection Questions:
- What impact does the idea of God giving spiritual gifts have on the way you approach your daily life or relationships?
- If you are unsure of how God has gifted you, take some time to think through these questions: What do you enjoy? What are you passionate about? What are your talents? What do people say about your natural strengths?
- Where might God be calling you to take a next step in serving His people through the church?
Prayer Prompt:
“God, thank you for gifting me in a unique way to serve and love you and your people. Help me to use my gifts for your glory and the good of others.”