How to use your Gifts and Talents

ShinePurpose CKJ
Aug 5, 2022
3 min read

Updated: Jun 2

God has given each of us the ability to succeed in life. He assigned each of us certain gifts and talents to glorify his kingdom. If you look into the definition of Gift, it says that it is a thing given willingly to someone without payment or a natural ability to do something. Which means that you did not have to do anything for God to give you these gifts, he just gave them to you by grace. This is amazing because it makes me think how God did not create us to be purposeless, and that we did not come to this world empty handed but already filled with certain gifts and talents to be used for a certain purpose.

If we look into the bible, Romans 12:6-8 give the best explanation on certain gifts and how to use them. It says "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."

I want you to think of the things that you love to do. For instance, are you passionate about encouraging others? Then maybe you have the gift of encouragement, or do you enjoy volunteering and helping? Then you probably have the gift of serving. There are a few other gifts that we receive when we accept Jesus into our lives and have the holy spirit for example prophesying, healing etc.. as mentioned in

1 Corinthians 12:7-11

Talents on the other hand are also given by God but you have to develop and train them. Perhaps you are great at singing, writing or being creative. Well, you can acquire the necessary skills to help you excel in this particular area.

Why you cannot waste your gifts and talents?

Whatever talents you have or area of gifting, do not waste them, in fact, use them to the maximum. God has given you these particular gifts and talents for a reason. He knows why he placed these abilities and passions in your heart. They are meant to be developed and used for such a time as this. And, the greater purpose behind it is that these things weren't meant for us to keep to ourselves, but to serve others and ultimately glorify God's kingdom. As 1 Peter 4:10 says: "As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace." which means that your obedience and willingness to use your gifts and talents may help thousands of people. Imagine if everyone in the world completely ignored their own gifts and talents, what would the world be? So, God knew what he was doing when he birthed these amazing abilities in each of us, he knew we would need each other. For instance, by using your gift of encouragement, you can help many get out of depression, or perhaps you are great at planning, leading, giving, whatever it is, use it in ways to help others. Because we received these gifts by grace, then it is also good to use them freely and joyfully.

"But how do I know my gifts or talents?"

1.The most important thing to do in order to know your gifts is to draw yourself closer to God, build a stronger relationship with him, always stay connected to him as your source, because who else can tell you what your gifts are than the one who gave it to you? By spending more time in his presence, reading his word, and asking him in prayer, he will show you more about yourself. A lot of times, all it takes is to ask God for clarity.

2. Recognize your passions. What do you love to do? What bring you joy? Too often your talents or gifts lies in what we enjoy doing. So, I encourage you to think about these more and start taking steps towards them as well.

3. Lastly, think about the great qualities that others point out in you. Such compliments as "you are a great leader", "you are very compassionate", "you are a great host" or "you're great at singing" etc... can help you recognize your gifts or talents.

Be Encouraged!