Written by Derrick Shire

Read: “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.” Romans 12:6-8

We want to approach spiritual gifts with joy and curiosity. Spiritual gifts really are meant to enrich our lives and bless others. They are not a prescription for who you must become or a list of expectations you now have to fulfill. Instead, they are an invitation to discover how God has equipped and empowered you. Take some time to revisit your spiritual gifts results, the teachings, and the accompanying testimonies. As you read through them again, pay attention to what resonates with you. These reflections can offer insight into how the Holy Spirit may be leading you to grow, develop, and express the gifts you have been given.

Spiritual gifts are designed to be lived out in community. In fact, many of them find their fullest expression when they are shared with and used alongside others. The more opportunities you have to practice using the spiritual gift, the more confident and effective you will become.

The church is a wonderful place to explore and develop your gifts in a supportive environment. Joining a Lifegroup is one of the best ways to discover how your gifts can serve others while receiving encouragement, feedback, and support from friends along the way. In your Lifegroup, you can use your gifts of leading, teaching, and encouraging through sharing with your group. If you don’t have a Lifegroup, consider starting one yourself. They are also a great place to share the empowered gifts and practice gifts like prophecy, tongues, and their interpretation.

You can also join one of our many Team Lifegate serving teams where you’ll have opportunities to put your gifts into action, make a difference, and continue growing in the ways God has uniquely shaped you. Discover Team options such as Kids, Youth, CoLab, Design and Marketing, Worship, and Production.

Two additional places where spiritual gifts often come to life through practice are Local Outreach and Global Journeys. These ministries provide meaningful opportunities for gifts such as Mercy, Giving, and Serving to shine as we care for others and meet practical needs. They are also places where many of the embodied gifts grow significantly, as serving beyond our comfort zones teaches us to rely more fully on God and experience His work through us.

Weekly Reflection Questions

1. Looking back over the last 14 weeks, how has your knowledge of spiritual gifts changed? What have you discovered about your gifts?
2. On a scale of 1-10, 1 being not confident and 10 being very confident, how do you feel about operating in your spiritual gifts? What is the reason for the rating you gave yourself?
3. What is your personal plan moving forward, to keep growing in your giftings? How do you hope to carve out time and space for the practice it takes to grow?