I have heard people complain before because their partner has given them a new vacuum cleaning or a new set of saucepans for their birthday.

1 Peter 4:1-19

Reference:  v.10  Each one should use whatever gift they have received to serve others, faithfully administering God's grace in its various forms.

Explore:  I'm not sure how it came about but there seems to be an unwritten rule that you should not give someone a gift that has anything to do with cleaning or cooking.  I have heard people complain before because their partner has given them a new vacuum cleaning or a new set of saucepans for their birthday.  They have not felt special but have felt like there was greater expectation for them to do more housework.  Gifts are supposed to be something that the receiver has for their personal enjoyment.

Application:  It seems that the gifts we receive from God are quite the opposite.  Our God-given gifts have the set purpose to serve others.  Whatever gift God has blessed us with are given to bring Him glory and to help lead others into a relationship with Him.  I think we often apply God's gifts in our lives in the same was as we apply the unwritten rule about receiving a gift.  Often we use the skills and abilities that we have to strengthen our position in the world or to make more money.  If we are to truly use our abilities in the way God has designed them it would be to bring glory to Him.

Prayer:  Lord, my selfish ambition is so strong and constant.  May I have the courage to live, not for my personal gain, but in all things to bring You glory.  Amen.

What are the gifts God has given to you?  Are you using them for personal or Godly blessing?