1 Peter 4:10-11 As each one has received a gift, minister it to one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God. If anyone speaks, let him speak as the oracles of God. If anyone ministers, let him do it as with the ability which God supplies, that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom belong the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen.
What are we doing with the talents and abilities God has given us? When we think of what it means to be good stewards, our thinking goes right to the material things God has blessed us with. However, what we will give account for is not just the material things God has allowed us to have, but the talents and abilities He has given us. Our talents and abilities were not given so we could glorify ourselves. They were given to us for God's glory. We were not given eternal life so that we can be professional seat warmers in church. We were saved and separated unto the Lord so that we can serve Him and serve each other. We all have some talent or ability that can be used to encourage and edify others. Some of us have been given the ability to speak. That means we can preach, teach, or be a person who encourages others using God's Word; not for our own glory and boasting, but the Lord's glory. Some of us have talents and resources God has given us that can be used for encouraging, edifying, helping, and blessing others in the local church. Sadly, many of us would rather use those talents and abilities to make money in the world, serve the world, and gain wealth for ourselves. Instead, we gather, as the church, to be served and fed, but then complain when we feel that OUR needs are not being met. Each of us has the ability to be a blessing, and do something that will glorify the Lord and help others who are going through trying times. In a world that is selfish, self-centered, and concerned with "me, myself, and I", we as the church need to stand apart and be servants; servants of God who are ready to serve one another, every moment of every day. God did not create us to be seat warmers. He created us to serve Him by serving others, and the day is soon coming when we will give account for how we served.
Today, God extends an invitation to you to accept His free gift of salvation (Rom 6:23). Will you accept it? Anyone who calls on Jesus, by faith, in repentance, confessing your sins, will receive eternal life. Do not put off calling on Him, and receive His free gift of salvation today (Rom 10:13).
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