Proverbs 18:16: A man’s gift makes room for him, and brings him before great men.
Insight
The minister of the Gospel recognizes the value of gifts as they usher him into the presence of people, who perhaps will value his message also. Sympathy gives weight to his instruction when, after the example of his divine Master, he combines kindness to the body with love for the soul. A wise consideration may usher us into the presence of the great for the advancement of the Christian cause. Blessed be God! We do not lack any gifts to bring before him. Our welcome is free. The door of access is forever open. Our treasure of grace in his unchanging favor is unfathomable. 1
Application
Consider the list of gifts in Romans 12:6–8: “Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, let us use them: if prophecy, let us prophesy in proportion to our faith; or ministry, let us use it in our ministering; he who teaches, in teaching; he who exhorts, in exhortation; he who gives, with liberality; he who leads, with diligence; he who shows mercy, with cheerfulness.”
What gift or gifts has the Lord bestowed upon you? Are you using the gift fully for HIs glory? Just think what could happen within the Body of Christ if we all honor God with what He has given to us. How will you start to be more yielded to Him in the use of your gift?
Motivation
Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow of turning. James 1:17
Your unused spiritual gifts keep the Body of Christ from maturing. – TWEET IT
Prayer
Father, teach us how to use Your gifts and to serve You with thanksgiving.
1. Bridges, C. (2001). Proverbs. Wheaton, IL: Crossway Books.
