In his book Twelve Ordinary Men, John MacArthur writes:
“The Twelve were like the rest of us; they were selected from the unworthy and the unqualified… Many Christians become discouraged and disheartened when their spiritual life and witness suffer because of sin or failure. We tend to think we’re worthless nobodies—and left to ourselves, that would be true! But worthless nobodies are just the kind of people God uses, because that is all He has to work with.”
Do you ever feel “unworthy” or “unqualified”? Join the club! I am sure all of us, at one time or another, have felt spiritually “inept” to accomplish the calling Jesus has placed on our lives. The original twelve apostles do not hesitate to follow Jesus at His calling. However, I am sure they had their doubts about their qualifications when His plan became apparent to them. Fortunately for them—and for us—the Holy Spirit equips those who follow Jesus for the task.
Most of us have probably taken a “Spiritual Gifts” survey. A partial list of spiritual gifts includes administration, evangelism, giving, leadership, pastor/shepherd, service, and teaching. Paul writes regarding spiritual gifts, “All these are empowered by one and the same Spirit, who apportions to each one individually as He wills” (1 Cor. 12:11, ESV). The Spirit fills each believer with certain gifts and talents for the benefit of the body of Christ.
I believe two of my spiritual gifts are giving and teaching, although I admit I sometimes struggle with being generous with my finances. When I need a subtle reminder of my role as a steward of God’s blessings, I think of Mike’s frequent encouragement to receive blessings with open hands. When I need a more forceful reminder, I read the “bigger barn” parable (Luke 12). I have led various small groups over the years and have always found joy in the experience. I personally believe that one of the ways God affirms our spiritual gifts is by allowing us to experience joy while using them. I remember being very hesitant before my first mission trip, but the joy I experienced during that time confirmed that I was using one of my gifts.
I encourage you to complete a spiritual gifts assessment (they are readily available online). Try to answer the questions honestly—don’t attempt to influence the outcome you may have already predetermined. You may be surprised by the results, or they may simply confirm what you already know. Another way to discern your spiritual gifts is to ask someone who knows you well for an honest assessment of your talents and abilities.
The bottom line: don’t let the enemy discourage you from using all that God has equipped you for in service to His Kingdom.
