A Christ-Centered Christmas Doesn't Have to Be HardSmakprov

Unused Gifts My husband and I were instructed to bring a white elephant gift (something we no longer needed or used) to our small group’s gift exchange. The night before the party, I asked my husband to see if he could find a gift for us to bring. He went down to the basement and came upstairs only minutes later with a gift in his hand. It was a croquet set we received several years ago but never used. The game had been hidden away in our basement, still neatly wrapped in its original package. Do you have any unused “gifts” lying around? Romans chapter twelve explains that we have different (spiritual) gifts according to the grace given us. Unfortunately, sometimes our spiritual gifts never get used (at least not in the way they were intended). Spiritual gifts should be used to build the Kingdom of God. Scripture tells us to use spiritual gifts to serve others and to faithfully administer God’s grace in its various forms. Perhaps you are unsure of your spiritual gifts, or you simply don’t know how to use them for God’s glory. If this is the case for you, simply ask God to provide you with some enlightenment. “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened” (Matthew 7:7-8). You also might find it helpful to take a spiritual gifts test. These online assessments can help identify your strengths so that you can hone in on and cultivate your gifts for building God’s Kingdom. Don’t let another day go by without using your spiritual gift. Like the croquet set my husband found in our basement, it would be a waste to keep your gift tucked away never to be used. Discover your gift from God, and then, use it for His glory. Personal Reflection * What are some of your spiritual gifts? * How are you using those gifts for God’s glory and kingdom purposes? Prayer Lord, I thank you for the spiritual gifts you have placed within me. Help me to use those gifts regularly to bless others and honor you. Amen.