The Buck Stops Here
John Fischer

There is a time for the buck to stop here and a time for it not to. The buck stops here when it relates to responsibility, but it stops somewhere else when it relates to gifts. With gifts, the buck just keeps on going. Things that are given are meant to be passed on. “Freely you have received,” said Jesus, “freely give.” Matthew 10:8 This is the one time it’s okay to “pass the buck.”

What does that mean except that what God gives us is ultimately for someone else. This is certainly true of all of His spiritual gifts, which are for the common good of us all. God’s gifts by their very nature are designed to help others. For instance, if I have received the gift of wisdom, the purpose of the gift is not to make me wise, but to aid me in helping someone else who needs wisdom or insight for a particular decision or a situation over which they are confused. Or if I have received the gift of knowledge, it is not to fill my head with information, but to be useful in helping others to understand the vastness of God’s truth and increase their faith as a result.

Actually, when it comes to spiritual gifts, most people are very poor at applying their gift to their own lives. I have a friend who has the gift of discernment and can nail the truth about someone else’s life but be completely blind to her own. I also know someone who is always encouraging others but often is privately discouraged, and in need of encouragement herself. I think God does this purposely so we don’t get arrogant about our gifts, and so we are, ourselves, in need of the very thing we give out.

It’s a great way to begin to figure out how God wants you to serve the Body of Christ. Think of what you are gifted in, and then think of who needs it, and what you can do for them. This way you can be more deliberate about serving those around you. What do you have in your hand and what can you do with it? Who might it be for?

And in light of what we just discussed regarding using your gifts on yourself, it might be good to realize you may need help from others in the very areas you are strong. You might even want to ask for it. If God’s gifts are always for someone else, then God has someone uniquely prepared to serve you as well. Remember: The buck stops there.

PDL