For just as we have many parts in one body and all the body’s parts do not have the same function, so we, who are many, are one body in Christ, and individually parts of one another. However, since we have gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, each of us is to use them properly: if prophecy, in proportion to one’s faith; if service, in the act of serving; or the one who teaches, in the act of teaching; or the one who exhorts, in the work of exhortation; the one who gives, with generosity; the one who is in leadership, with diligence; the one who shows mercy, with cheerfulness.

If you have ever played on a baseball team, your position was likely influenced by the areas you were most gifted. If you threw the ball skillfully and could aim well, you would be assigned as the pitcher. If you had a quick response time or quick hands, you may be a shortstop or first base. It is easy to think about what gifts we have on the field, in the office, or even in our home life, but it is often more difficult to recognize our spiritual gifts.

Thankfully, this is not something we have to figure out on our own. We are given discernment of these gifts through the Holy Spirit’s work in our lives and in the lives of other believers. We don’t have to compare ourselves to others to see how our gifts measure up, but we look to our heavenly Father, who sees value and significance to every role in building up His body. Before a baseball player can find out what position he best fits, he first must play with a team. It will give him practice getting better and bring to light the things that come more naturally and the areas that are more challenging. If you have been sitting on the sidelines, nervous and unsure about your gifts, it is time to get in the game! God has given you His Spirit to guide you, equip you, and be your help. He who designed you, created you, and sustains your life, has gifted you in a unique way that is important for serving as part of His body.

• When have you been tempted to sit back instead of looking for where you can serve God?
• How can you seek to learn more about the ways God has gifted you for His purposes?
• Pray for the body of Christ, that every believer will find his or her gifts and use them for God’s glory.