Spiritual gifts are unique powers and abilities given to the followers of Jesus by God himself. Throughout Scripture, we see the Holy Spirit lavishing believers with special and unique endowments to build the Kingdom of God. 

As Christians, we are not only encouraged to identify our gifts but are called to cultivate and use them as we live out our faith. 

Simply put, if you belong to Jesus, you have a gift to use for His glory. 

If you have yet to discover your gift, this article is for you. By taking time to explore God’s purpose for spiritual gifts and using a practical approach to identify your gifting, you will be well on your way to discovering the unique abilities God placed inside of you.

DEFINITION & PURPOSE OF SPIRITUAL GIFTS

Spiritual gifts are one of the many ways God builds His church. Countless giftings are highlighted throughout the epistles and narratives of the Bible, such as teaching, mercy, service, and leadership. These gifts and many more have many uses in accomplishing the will of God. Here are five reasons God gives spiritual gifts to His people:

1.Edification 

Spiritual gifts are given and used to build up, encourage, and strengthen the body of Christ toward overall growth and well-being.

2. Service and Ministry 

Spiritual gifts are given and used to meet needs, support, and uplift one another, both for believers and nonbelievers. 

3. Witnessing & evangelism 

Spiritual gifts are given and used to share the gospel with nonbelievers and help guide believers in their faith journey. 

4. Reflect unity and diversity 

Spiritual gifts are given and used to preserve unity among the body and reflect the body’s diversity in unity. 

5. God’s glory 

Spiritual gifts are given and used to bring God glory. 

It’s important to note that 1 Corinthians 12-13 reminds us every gift is given to be used in love, humility, and with a desire for the common good. 

SPIRITUAL GIFTS WITHIN THE CHURCH 

Several passages in the Bible explicitly list many of the spiritual gifts given to God’s people. 

Romans 12:6–8, 1 Corinthians 12:4–11, and 1 Corinthians 12:28 go to great lengths to provide a beautiful foundation for the types of gifting God gives.

These passages include prophecy, exhortation, healing, encouragement, and many more.

But what about the gifts that are not explicitly listed in the scriptures? What about the unique talents, skills, and abilities recognized in various Christian traditions and teachings and active in the church today? 

Here are nine other gifts you didn’t know about to consider as you journey to find your spiritual gift:

1. Creativity

The gift of creativity is the ability to express faith, truth, and beauty through various art forms such as music, visual arts, writing, and other creative endeavors.

2. General Discernment 

The gift of discernment is the ability to perceive and understand spiritual truths, motives, and influences, often used to provide guidance and insight to others.

3. Compassion 

The spiritual gift of compassion involves a deep sense of empathy, understanding, and a strong desire to alleviate the suffering of others. This gift is a true reflection of Christ’s love and empathy for humanity.

4. Financial Stewardship 

The gift of financial Stewardship is the ability to manage and use financial resources in a way that honors God, benefits the body of Christ, and supports charitable causes.

5. Wisdom in Decision-Making

The ability to consistently make sound and godly decisions in complex or challenging situations is a God-given gift. This gift is often used to help provide clarity and insight to others facing similar dilemmas.

6. Intercessory prayer

The ability to pray fervently for the needs of others and to engage in spiritual warfare through prayer.

7. Counseling

The gift of listening, empathizing, and providing wise and compassionate guidance to those in need of emotional, mental, or spiritual support.

8. Hospitality

The gift of creating an atmosphere of warmth, welcome, and care for others, often through hosting and serving others in a generous and loving manner.

9. Empathy

The gift of deeply understanding and sharing the feelings of others, providing comfort, compassion, and support in times of need.

These talents, skills, and abilities are gifts the Spirit gives and uses for God’s glory, and there are many more! You may possess the gift of encouragement or ministry zeal, evangelism or giving, shepherding or administration—all gifts that are present and actively edify God’s people. As you do the work to discover what your gift may be, consider that your gift may be among the many implied in scripture and present in the church today.

DEVELOPING YOUR SPIRITUAL GIFT

Developing your spiritual gift is a journey; although it looks different for everyone, this is an excellent way to start the process.

1. Pray. Begin your search with prayer and trust in the Holy Spirit. Pray and ask the Lord to reveal your gift. You must trust the Spirit not only as the distributor of your gift but also as the one who will unveil and empower it. As you pray, listen, and wait, put your faith to work with practical approaches to identifying your gift. 

2. Study the Word. Study the scriptures to learn more about spiritual gifts and how they are displayed. This will help you identify your gift once it’s revealed. 

3. Look Inside.  Take time to reflect on where you find purpose and what you feel called to. Gifts are tools that help us walk in purpose and fulfill God’s call in our lives. Consider what strengths and capabilities you possess that correlate with purpose and calling.

4. Seek Guidance. Once you discover your gift, continue to pray and study to gain more wisdom, clarity, and understanding. Seek guidance from spiritual leaders and other Christians with more experience who can help develop your gifting. 

5. Get to Work. Get involved in different ministries until you find your niche, and be open to change. What God has in mind for you, may not be what you have in mind for yourself. Trust Him. His ways are higher than our ways, and He is always working for our good. 

Lastly, as you practice your gift, remain open to feedback as you navigate growth. Always remember that the Holy Spirit gives gifts to individuals, but they are gifts designed to be discovered, developed, and utilized in the Christian community. You need other Christians, and other believers need your gift. God made His people a “body” for a reason, and every limb, organ, and extremity work together for the health of the body. 

DISCOVER YOUR GIFT

If you belong to Jesus, there is a gift you possess that the Lord desires to use. You have a unique ability inside of you designed to bring Him glory and edify others. So take the time to discover your gift, embracing the journey along the way. 

Seek God to reveal your gift and its purpose. Study the scriptures to understand the gifts of the spirit and how they manifest in the life of the church. Reflect on the strengths and qualities that set you apart, knowing God made you “YOU” for a reason. He called you to Himself, gave you purpose, and will use the gift He placed inside of you to magnify His goodness and blessing to the world.

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