How to Identify Your Spiritual Gifts #3
Imagine youre walking down some abandoned railroad tracks. As you round the bend theres a tunnel up ahead. With no danger of an approaching train, you enter it.
Off in the distance you see a tiny pinpoint of light coming from the tunnels exit. Seeing the other end gives you confidence so you begin walking forward.
Out ahead is nothing but darkness with only a small sliver of light. But when you look back youre flooded with light.
The analogy teaches that the best way to understand the present is to look at your past. Your life is not a blank page. God has been at work in your life since before you were born; and God continues to be active in your life since you took your first breath.
To identify your spiritual gifts, dont look to your future; instead, examine your past. Take time to notice the opportunities God has given you to serve others. Theres probably a pattern there.
Do people often come to you for advice? Perhaps your gift is wisdom. Or do you find yourself helping those who are hurting. Maybe your gift is mercy. Do you pitch in and help wherever needed? Consider the gift of helps. When you hear someone is ill, is prayer your first response? Your gift might be intercession.
Read or re-read the series in this blog on The Spiritual Gifts. Which of these gifts best fits the pattern of the serving opportunities God has given you?
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.
