The great British author and preacher, Charles Spurgeon once visited an elderly lady who lived in a retirement home for those who could not afford to take care of themselves. As Spurgeon spoke to this woman in her tiny room, he noticed a framed piece of paper with some writing on it hanging on the wall. She explained that it was a keepsake given to her by an older invalid man she had taken care of many years ago.

It was a sign of his appreciation for her loving care. After much persuasion, Spurgeon was able to borrow that piece of paper. And a nearby bank confirmed his hopes. “We’ve been wondering who the old gentlemen left his money to.” The bank officer explained. He had transferred a huge sum of money to her name years ago.

This woman had been living in poverty, while her unclaimed fortune gathered dust in the bank. Her framed deed to her inheritance hung on the wall—useless.

Are you using your gifts?

It is possible for Christians to live many years—even a lifetime—without identifying and using the wealth of gifts that God has given them. For one reason or another, they’re hindered from discovering and using their unique gifts from God.

The Bible says a few important things about the gifts the Lord has given us.

A spiritual gift is given to each of us so we can help each other.
1 Corinthians 12:7

All of you together are Christ’s body, and each of you is necessary part of it.
1 Corinthians 12:27

God has uniquely wired you with specific personality and gifts from Heaven. And here’s the big deal: YOU, along with your personality and gifts are a NECESSARY part of the family! If you are not doing your part, we all miss out!

What has the Lord called and gifted you to do? Maybe you are an intercessor, a businessman, musician, greeter, usher, or singer. Whatever the Lord has wired you to do—JUST DO IT!

A large part of your spiritual growth comes from using the talents and gifts the Lord has given you. And one day we will all stand before Jesus and give an account of how we used those gifts to advance his Kingdom in the earth. If they are being used, we will hear the words: Well done my good and faithful servant.

Meditate on this:

The Lord has stored up treasures of goodness for me. And he is lavishing it on me, blessing me before the watching world.
Psalm 31:19

Father, thank you for the treasures you have stored up for me. For the blessings and gifts you have lavished on me. Help me to focus on what you have gifted and called me to do. Help me bloom where I’m planted and use my gifts well for your honor and glory. I look forward to the day when I will stand before you and hear the words “Well done!”