many gifted CHRISTians . . .

There are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit. There are differences of ministries, but the same Lord. And there are diversities of activities, but it is the same God who works all in all. But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to each one for the profit of all:  for to one is given the word of wisdom through the Spirit, to another the word of knowledge through the same Spirit, to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healings by the same Spirit, to another the working of miracles, to another prophecy, to another discerning of spirits, to another different kinds of tongues, to another the interpretation of tongues.  But one and the same Spirit works all these things, distributing to each one individually as He wills. (1 Corinthians 12: 6-11)

There are many gifted CHRISTians!  The issue is do we know the gift and are we using it properly. A Paul states above, God gives certain gifts to every believer. Some get a few, but every believer receives at least one spiritual gift with which to serve the Body of Christ. However, very few people take the effort to discover their gifts(s).

Many of is wander through life serving here and there and feel as though we are not being effective. We serve as ushers, SONday school workers, nursery uppers, or as administrative staff. Some are pastors, deacons or other leaders within the church. Just because we have been chosen by man to serve does not mean that God has equipped us to serve in that capacity however. It can be frustrating and detrimental to the Church when we are serving in the wrong roles!

I encourage you to take a spiritual gift inventory. There are numerous on line. Take a few to be sure of your area of bitterness. There are surveys for adults and teens. It was one of the first ministries I was involved in when first becoming a believer. I found out how God equipped me and was able to then prepare to serve in those roles. While I was unable to do some things because of consequences of sin (another topic for later), I am still able to be used by God and am excited to do so! I would not want it any other way!

As with any talent, gift or ability, it is given to use . . . so use it! As my coach would often say, "use it or lose it". God can and will set us aside and use others if we do not exercise our gifts to serve!