"Every Good & Perfect Gift"

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Just as each one of you has received a special gift [a spiritual talent, an ability graciously given by God], employ it in serving one another as [is appropriate for] good stewards of God’s multi-faceted grace [faithfully using the diverse, varied gifts and abilities granted to Christians by God’s unmerited favor].  1 Peter 4:10 (AMP)   

And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.  Colossians 3:17

There is a story in the Book of Luke of the parable of the minas that tells of a nobleman who gave to his servants money to invest until he returned.  Two of the three servants were faithful, invested wisely, and realized a good return.  In return, they were given increase and authority over more.  The last servant buried his talent for fear, and because of it, lost the little he had.

I want to be that good and faithful servant, not like the one who hides his gifts away.  Gifts serve no purpose if they only sit in unopened, pretty boxes.  But we are meant to be bright and shining lights in this world that all may see our good works and praise our Father in Heaven.  The Lord has entrusted us with good things, good gifts to use as the Holy Spirit leads.

The Father has uniquely designed each one of us with varying gifts, talents, personalities, abilities and desires to help make up the body of Christ as we contribute to the part that is lacking.  There are no small or big gifts, but all are of great value in the eyes of God that He may create unity among us and bring us to maturity.

May each of us seek out to discover, unwrap, cultivate and exercise the gifts the Lord has given, wisely investing them in things of eternal value to yield His increase and everlasting rewards, as we walk in obedience to Him. 

I pray we stir up the gifts of God that are in us, shaking off feelings of inadequacy, fear, jealousy, comparisons, disappointments and all the regret of past failures.  For today is a new day!  

So may we hear and boldly answer the call of the Spirit that is speaking, "Arise, shine; for your light has come!  And the glory of the Lord is risen upon you.  You are fearfully and wonderfully made and have come to the kingdom for such a time as this."

Scripture Meditation:  
Luke 19:11-27
James 1:17
Matthew 5:13-16
Romans 12:3-8
1 Corinthians 12
Ephesians 4:7-16
1 Peter 4:10
2 Timothy 1:6-7
Isaiah 60:1 
Psalm 139:14
Esther 4:14
Colossians 3:17