How to Identify Your Spiritual Gifts #1
Recently, as I was preparing dinner, I read the instructions on the box. Lets see the conventional oven would take 28-32 minutes at 375 degrees. But the meal could be ready in 3-4 minutes in the microwave. Guess which I chose.
We live in a microwave world where we want everything fast and we want it now! Unfortunately, this is the same attitude we take in identifying our spiritual gifts. Identifying spiritual gifts takes time and multiple serving experiences.
Lets start by discussing how NOT to identify your spiritual gifts. Then we will build a strong foundation for understanding the true biblical approach.
First, spiritual gift tests dont accurately identify spiritual gifts. At best, theyre a tool to identify personal strengths, not spiritual gifts. How many bible characters identified their spiritual gifts by taking an inventory?
Second, spiritual gifts may or may not be the same as personal strengths. Through education and experience I have developed a strong skill set in teaching and leading. But only teaching is my spiritual gift; leadership is not. How do I know? Because when I teach the Holy Spirit works through me to impact others beyond my natural set of teaching abilities. When I lead at church I havent noticed any spiritual impact on others. My impact is all attributable to my natural leadership abilities.
Finally, you dont get to choose your spiritual gifts. God determines which gifts you receive, and His choices are a perfect reflection of who He created you to be and what He created you to do.
Dr. Steve Lake is a retired educator with over 30 years experience in the American public schools. He has served in a variety of position, including teacher, elementary school principal, junior high principal, Associate Superintendent, retired from public education as Superintendent of Schools in Lincolnwood, IL. He has his Bachelors, Masters and Doctor of Education degrees from Northern Illinois University. For the past 25 years Steve has attended and been a member of Willow Creek Community Church in South Barrington and Northfield, IL. At Willow Creek Steve has taught adult classes on spiritual gifts, life purpose, and spiritual disciplines. He has ministered overseas in Angola, Zambia, Honduras, Germany, and Russia. Steve is co-founder of Designed to Serve, a ministry that equips Christians to live out their unique God-given calling. Steve is married and has two adult children who are married.
