Having gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, let us use them: if prophecy, in proportion to our faith; if service, in our serving; the one who teaches, in his teaching; the one who exhorts, in his exhortation; the one who contributes, in generosity; the one who leads, with zeal; the one who does acts of mercy, with cheerfulness.

– Romans 12:6-8

Walking into a large shopping center a woman walking into the store in front of me stopped, turned around and handed me a card with scripture on both sides. She said I looked like I could use some encouragement. Today’s reading reminds of that stranger using her natural gifts of compassion and encouragement.

According to Romans 12:6-8, we all have different gifts that God has given us and we are encouraged to use those gifts in our interactions with others. Which of the following gifts do you have: speaking or writing inspiration (prophecy); assisting someone (service); educating others (teaching); advising or encouraging others (exhort); give or supply (contribute); guide or direct (lead); or treating others with compassion (acts of mercy)? How can you use your God given gifts today?

It has been several months and although it might seem like a small thing, handing a stranger a card with Bible verses, I still keep that card on my desk where I see it daily. I use it to reflect on the Bible verses and also as a reminder to me to use my gifts from God, even in seemingly small ways.

Prayer:

Dear Lord, thank you for your grace and for giving me different gifts that I can use and share with others. Please open my eyes to clearly see my gifts and to use those gifts to benefit others. In Jesus’ name we pray.

Daily Reading: Ephesians 1

– Contributed by Mari Kreft