Gifted

When God created you, He knew every part of you. He gifted you, not because He had to, but because of the amazing love He has for you. He created you with gifts, talents, and abilities that you can use to honor and reflect Him to others. And, if you know Jesus, you’ve also been given spiritual gifts, which are special abilities God gives to His people through the power of the Holy Spirit. And yet, even with all the good gifts our Creator and Savior has given us, we fall into the trap of comparison. We look at the gifts of others and wish we were more athletic, more musical, more outgoing, smarter, funnier. Or we don’t use what we’ve been given out of fear or feeling that someone else might be better for the Job We put our identity in what we do rather than on Christ and all the ways He has blessed us. But the God who created the entire universe—and every intricate part of you—knew just what He was doing when He gave you each of your gifts, talents, and abilities. He knew the people you would call family, friends, classmates. He has plans for you and has given you gifts so that you can bless others and point them to Jesus and His kingdom. What has God gifted you with? Maybe it’s a musical talent or athletic ability. Maybe He’s given you the gift of compassion for others. Maybe you’re a leader. Whatever it is, rather than compare or shrink back, thank Him and use your gifts for God’s glory. • Cara Campbell • Why do we compare ourselves to others? Why do we think God has given them better gifts than us? • What are your talents? What are your spiritual gifts? If you don’t know, ask a pastor, camp counselor, or other trusted Christian friend. • What are ways Jesus might want you to use the gifts He’s given you for His kingdom? Whatever you do, do it from the heart, as something done for the Lord and not for people. Colossians 3:23 (CSB)

Read Verses:

1 Corinthians 12:4, 12-26; Colossians 3:17, 23-24