February 9

GOD EQUIPS YOU TO HELP OTHERS

As every man hath received the gift, even so minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God. [11] If any man speak, let him speak as the oracles of God; if any man minister, let him do it as of the ability which God giveth: that God in all things may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom be praise and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.

1 Peter 4:10-11

In the letter to the believers at Philippi, Paul wrote, “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves” (Philippians 2:3). Self-obsessed people are wrapped up in their own lives from sunup to sundown.

Both of these traits—selfish ambition and vain conceit—fly in the face of what we’re called to be. As Christians, we’ve been specially equipped by the Spirit of God with supernatural abilities. God means for us to use these gifts to serve others and to accomplish his plan for the world (see Ephesians 2:10). When we choose to exercise our gifts, God gives us the necessary strength, others find needed help, and most importantly, God gets the glory he deserves.

On the other hand, when we rush around absorbed with own selfish agendas, everyone loses.

Are you so wrapped up in your own hectic life that others are missing out on your unique, God-given abilities? The old saying is true: “If you’re too busy for people, you’re too busy.”

GOD’S PROMISE TO ME:

• I have given you unique gifts and special abilities.

• My generosity will flow through you.

• I get glory when you serve in my strength.

MY PRAYER TO GOD:

God, thanks for giving me special abilities with which to serve others. I want to be a blessing to others. Most of all, I want to bring you glory. Work in me. Work through me. Amen.