The Gift and the Gifted

Yesterday we learned that, as those identified with Christ who suffered in the flesh, we are to live for the will of God (1 Peter 4:1-5). What does a life lived for the will of God look like?

Peter says "Be self-controlled and sober-minded" (1 Peter 4:7). Peter says, "Show hospitality" (1 Peter 4:9). He says "Above all, keep loving one another earnestly" (1 Peter 4:8). We get these. These are good. Indeed, that last one is so oft repeated in Scripture as to be known even to the skeptic. "Hey, aren't you Christians supposed to be loving??!!" Well, yes, we are.

And then Peter says something that I don't recall ever hearing from the pulpit. He gives it by way of command, not suggestion. "As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another" (1 Peter 4:10).

Now, we're all aware of "spiritual gifts" and such, but how far do we pursue that? Do you know what your gift is? (Isn't it interesting ... Peter says two things about that. First, "Each has received a gift". No one can say, "Well, I never did." Second, Peter says "a gift". Do we get more than one? Perhaps, but, but Peter seems to indicate "one".) Peter says we are to be "good stewards of God's varied grace" (1 Peter 4:10). The idea is clear. "I've given you a spiritual gift for the benefit of the Body of Christ ... use it." Are you? Peter tells us to operate in that gift as that which comes from God (the source) and "in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ" (the end) (1 Peter 4:11). No small thing.

What do we know, then? First, everyone who belongs to Christ is gifted. Second, you're given a gift to serve. Thus, the aim is to use it. Are you? Are you serving with the gift given you? Are you being a good steward? Are you doing what God has enabled you to do for the purpose that God has intended ... His glory? If not, perhaps it's something you should pursue. Okay, perhaps "perhaps" is the wrong word.