Use Your Gifts
Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others. Philippians 2:4
In this section of scripture, Paul is exhorting those he’s writing to be in unity. Therefore, to be in unity, you must look out for others. Verses 1-3 say, “Therefore if there is any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any affection and mercy, fulfill my joy by being like-minded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind. Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind, let each esteem others better than himself.”
Paul had the wisdom of God when he wrote those words. Paul went on to point out that Jesus was our example. Jesus knew He was equal with God, yet he humbled himself to come to earth as a man in the form of a servant.
I once heard someone very influential say, “I have learned to never think I am above or below anyone else.” That statement has stayed with me because it demonstrates Christ’s example. We need to be confident with the gifts and abilities that God has given us, yet at the same time humble in using those gifts.
God has given each of us gifts to help strengthen and edify the body of Christ. We are not to be comparing what we have or don’t have to others. When we compare ourselves to others, we will lose our joy because we take our eyes off God and start looking at others for our measuring stick. Then we tend not to use our giftings because we feel like other people do it better.
However, we are to keep our focus on serving others. Don’t be afraid of making mistakes or afraid you can’t do whatever it is as good as others. Just be faithful and willing to use your gifts in serving to the best of your ability, and you will be blessed as well.
Dear Lord, help me find my place in the body of Christ to serve others through the gifts you have given me. Amen.