We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your faith; if it is serving, then serve; if it is teaching, then teach; if it is to encourage, then give encouragement; if it is giving, then give generously; if it is to lead, do it diligently; if it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully.
Romans 12:6-8 NIV
How has God gifted you for service within the body of Christ? If you are like many, you might think that you were overlooked in the distribution of gifts. Or, if you were gifted, you have no idea what it might be.
In this passage on service within the body of Christ in Romans 12:3-8, Paul first tells us to think of ourselves with sober judgment. How has God equipped you to serve? Rather than examining a list of gifts and trying to find yourself in one of them, consider what passion God might have given you? What is it you can do well? How are other people affirming you? What gives you fulfillment? The answers to those questions can help you to discern your place of service within the body.
Paul goes on to refer to the church as a body. Each of us are members of that body. And we all belong to each other. We all have different parts to play. Some are more visible than others. But all are important. The body is only fully healthy when all its members are healthy and properly working together.
And then he affirms that each of us has been gifted according to the grace God has given to each of us. It is a privilege to serve the body. So, whatever that place of service you have been given, do it to the best of the ability God has given you. It may be to prophesy, to serve, to teach, to encourage, to give, to lead, or to show mercy. Or it may be something else entirely. But whatever it is, do it diligently and cheerfully.
