STAR SEARCH, ROUND ONE

Romans 12:6-8
6 We have different gifts, according to the grace given us. If a man's gift is prophesying, let him use it in proportion to
his faith. 7 If it is serving, let him serve; if it is teaching, let him teach; 8 if it is encouraging, let him encourage; if it is contributing to the needs of others, let him give generously; if it is leadership, let him govern diligently; if it is showing
mercy, let him do it cheerfully.

My young son and I were watching Star Search one evening. I was so impressed with the singers, dancers, and comedians that I started to imagine that I was doing all that wonderful stuff.

Half-kidding, half-fishing for a compliment, I asked my son, "Do you think I could make it on Star Search?" His face suddenly froze and he became strangely captivated by a piece of old popcorn underneath one of the sofa cushions. I was sure he didn't hear my question, so I leaned in closer, eyebrows up, half-smiling, and repeated, "Do you think I could make it on Star Search?" After another pause, he mumbled, "No. I think you'd only get one star. I just don't think they'd laugh at your jokes, and you're way too old to dance."

Okay, so I may not be Star Search material, but no matter how old I am or how "unglitzy" my talents are, I'm still made in the image of a creative God and I have special abilities that He's given me.

And so do you. God has given each of us certain gifts that He wants us to use for His glory (Romans 12:6). You may be a gifted musician, teacher, or preacher. Or your strengths may lie in organizing details, offering hospitality, or caring for the elderly.

Our gifts and talents are important. They show that our Creator is a vibrant, life-giving, imaginative God. But it's not the particular gift you have that matters as much as your willingness to be used by God and the extent to which you demonstrate childlike dependence on Him. He's given us His Holy Spirit, who enables us to serve. We must be open to various opportunities for ministry, even if it's not the most glamorous assignment. And we must be aware that it is only because of grace that we have anything at all to offer others.

Have you found a place to use God's gifts to you? --Allison Stevens

DESTINATION POINTS

* What gifts do I think I have?
* Am I currently using my gifts and talents in service to the Lord? If not, how can I begin to use them?
* How does using my gifts demonstrate my faith in God?

LINKS:
Spiritual Snowflakes
http://www.christianitytoday.com/free/connection/2001/conn0615.html

How Do You Live The Christian Life?
http://www.discoveryseries.org/q0702

Ministry In The Mix?
http://www.christianitytoday.com/teens/newsletter/2003/bym30426.html

bottom line: Each person is gifted by God.

soul journey