DISCERNING YOUR SPIRITUAL GIFT
By Rev. Samuel Arimoro
Main Text: Romans 12:6-8
Supporting Texts: 1 Corinthians 12:4-11, Ephesians 4:11-13, 1 Peter 4:10
INTRODUCTION:
Every believer is uniquely gifted by God with spiritual gifts meant to edify the body of Christ and advance His kingdom on earth. However, many Christians struggle to identify or fully operate in their spiritual gifts, limiting their impact and personal growth. Discerning your spiritual gift is crucial because it aligns your God-given potential with your divine purpose. It is through these gifts that the church is built up, and the gospel powerfully proclaimed.
The Apostle Paul reminds us that spiritual gifts are diverse but all come from the same Spirit for the common good. Recognising your gift requires prayer, self-examination, and seeking God’s guidance through His Word and the counsel of mature believers. As you learn to operate in your gift, your effectiveness in ministry will increase, and you will experience greater joy and fulfilment.
Today’s message will guide you through how to discern your spiritual gift and walk confidently in the calling God has placed on your life. It is time to discover your place in the body of Christ and step into a powerful season of fruitfulness.
1. UNDERSTAND THE PURPOSE OF SPIRITUAL GIFTS
a) Gifts are given to serve the body of Christ: Spiritual gifts are not for personal glory but to build, encourage, and strengthen the church (1 Corinthians 12:7). Each gift contributes to the unity and maturity of believers.
b) Gifts are distributed by the Holy Spirit: The Spirit sovereignly gives gifts according to His will and wisdom, not by human choice or effort (1 Corinthians 12:11).
c) Gifts bring glory to God: When operated rightly, spiritual gifts glorify God and testify to His power and grace (Ephesians 3:20-21).
d) Gifts create diversity within unity: Different gifts harmonize to make the church a fully functioning organism, each part essential (Romans 12:4-5).
Biblical Example: The early church at Pentecost displayed diverse gifts such as speaking in tongues and prophecy, demonstrating the Spirit’s work for the common good (Acts 2:1-4).
2. PRAY AND SEEK GOD’S GUIDANCE
a) Ask God to reveal your gift: Genuine discernment begins with prayerful dependence on God to make your spiritual gifting clear (James 1:5).
b) Be sensitive to the Spirit’s leading: The Holy Spirit guides believers into all truth and reveals the gifts within them (John 16:13).
c) Surround yourself with spiritually mature counsel: Wise leaders can help confirm and encourage you as you explore your gifting (Proverbs 15:22).
d) Wait patiently for confirmation: Discerning gifts may take time and requires obedience to God’s timing (Ecclesiastes 3:1).
Biblical Example: Paul prayed for wisdom and guidance in ministry, demonstrating reliance on God’s direction (Acts 16:6-10).
3. EXPLORE AND TEST YOUR GIFT(S)
a) Identify natural abilities aligned with spiritual gifts: Often, God equips us with natural talents that reflect our spiritual gifting (Exodus 31:3-5).
b) Step out in faith to serve in areas you feel drawn to: Testing your gift in ministry settings reveals its strength and impact (1 Timothy 4:14).
c) Observe the fruit and confirmation from others: The results of your service and encouragement from others help verify your gifting (Galatians 5:22-23).
d) Remain humble and open to growth: Spiritual gifts develop through practice, learning, and reliance on the Holy Spirit (2 Timothy 1:6).
Biblical Example: Peter discovered and grew in the gift of leadership and preaching after Pentecost (Acts 3:1-10).
4. OPERATE YOUR GIFT WITH LOVE AND HUMILITY
a) Love is the foundation for all gifts: Without love, gifts lose their power and purpose (1 Corinthians 13:1-3).
b) Use your gift to serve others selflessly: The goal of spiritual gifts is to meet needs and bless others, not to gain personal recognition (Philippians 2:3-4).
c) Maintain a humble attitude: Pride can hinder the flow of the Spirit and cause division (Proverbs 16:18).
d) Be willing to learn and submit to God’s leading: Continuous growth and submission ensure your gift honours God (Colossians 3:23-24).
Biblical Example: Jesus demonstrated perfect humility and love even as He operated in all His spiritual gifts (Philippians 2:5-8).
5. MULTIPLY YOUR GIFT FOR GOD’S GLORY
a) Mentor and encourage others in their gifts: Helping others discover and grow their gifts strengthens the entire body (2 Timothy 2:2).
b) Use your gift consistently and faithfully: Regular exercise of your spiritual gift increases its effectiveness (Luke 16:10).
c) Step into greater responsibility as God leads: Be willing to expand your service and influence according to God’s call (Ephesians 4:12-13).
d) Celebrate the impact your gift makes in God’s kingdom: Give God the glory for every fruit that comes through your gift (Psalm 115:1).
Biblical Example: Barnabas, known as the “Son of Encouragement,” multiplied his gift by mentoring Paul and supporting the early church (Acts 4:36-37).
CONCLUSION:
Discerning your spiritual gift is a vital step in fulfilling God’s plan for your life and the church. It requires intentionality—prayer, exploration, and obedience—to discover the unique calling God has placed within you. As you walk in your gifting, you will experience joy, purpose, and divine empowerment that blesses others and glorifies God.
Do not neglect or underestimate the gift within you. Commit to growing and operating it in love and humility. When you serve faithfully, you contribute to the body of Christ and participate in the expansion of God’s kingdom here on earth.
PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord, reveal to me the spiritual gift(s) You have given me.
2. Father, give me wisdom to operate my gift with excellence.
3. Holy Spirit, guide me into all truth and help me discern Your leading.
4. Lord, help me serve others selflessly through my gift.
5. Father, increase my faith to step out boldly in ministry.
6. Help me grow in humility and love as I use my gift.
7. Lord, connect me with mentors and wise counsel.
8. Father, multiply the impact of my spiritual gift.
9. Holy Spirit, empower me to minister with boldness and grace.
10. Lord, use me to build Your church and glorify Your name.
