It's a Gift

So, last night in small group we took these spiritual gifts tests to find out which of the seven spiritual giftings each of us were strongest in. I honestly feel a little uncomfortable with these tests. Not that they are bad. But they just leave so much out.

For starters, Paul seemed to use the phrase "spiritual gift" to indicate any gift from God that builds up the spiritual side of people. True, he lists examples of some of these gifts in his letters, but I don't think they were ever indended to be comprehensive. It seems like some artifice of men to say these seven categories of abilities are the "spiritual" gifts, while everything else is just a talent or skill.

Also, the tests can seem to generalize what traits are required for a specific gift. In truth, some traits can be a gift in some cases, but a vice in others. For example, I have an analytical personality. When I was younger, this personality, untempered by experience, caused me to often come across as critical and judgemental of others. It still does from time to time. Black and white. Right and wrong. I'm right, you're wrong. The test said I was most likely to have the "spiritual gift of prophecy". Really, I was an insensitive bully, more interested in being right than helping others. I hurt people. I hope that gift came with a receipt, because people are telling me I need to take it back to the store.

Over time, after saying many things I regret and hurting several people, I've learned it more important to show love than to be right all the time. Now, the tests rate me a mediocre prophet at best.

What happened? I become more loving, striving to be like Christ, and yet the test says I lost a "spiritual gift". Something ain't right here. If that's what spiritual gifts are like, I would prefer to have as few as possible, thanks.

So anyway, as far as spiritual gifts go, I tend to think of every good and perfect gift from God as having some spiritual benefit, as well as some practical, physical benefit. This includes skills, but also circumstances, emotions, and even just plain things, like hot fudge sundaes! If I'm good at coding computers, I find a way to minister to the body with that. If I'm in the right place at the right time to help someone, I should do it. If you have money and things, give to those who don't. Even your pain can be a blessing in disguise, if it makes you sensitive to the pain of others, or a better spiritual warrior, or whatever.

Everything has a bright side, because God is all around and He is working through all things for good. So take what God has given you, whatever it may be, whether it's on the list or not, and share it with others the best way you know how. That's what being a part of Christ's body is all about.