Why Spiritual Gifts Matter
On February 9, Chiefs fans experienced a moment they’d rather forget. The Eagles, with their signature "Tush Push" play, drove into the end zone, setting the tone for what would become a dominant performance. What made this play so effective? It wasn’t just the strategy—it was the right people, using their strengths, working in perfect unity. The same principle applies to the Church. When believers understand and operate in their God-given spiritual gifts, the Church moves forward with unstoppable momentum.
Just like a football team needs players in different positions, the Church thrives when each person embraces their unique role. 1 Corinthians 12:4-11 tells us that spiritual gifts come from the same Spirit but serve different purposes. Whether it’s wisdom, faith, healing, or administration, these gifts are meant to build up the body of Christ. If we all tried to be quarterbacks, the team wouldn’t function. Likewise, the Church struggles when believers either neglect their gifts or try to imitate someone else’s.
Spiritual gifts differ from natural talents or the fruit of the Spirit. While talents can be developed and the fruit of the Spirit reflects our character, spiritual gifts are supernatural abilities given by the Holy Spirit to equip & deploy the Church. Throughout Scripture, we see the Holy Spirit empowering believers for specific tasks. From the apostles laying the foundation of the early Church to modern-day pastors, teachers, and encouragers, each gift plays a crucial role in advancing God’s kingdom.
Paul categorizes these gifts into three types: establishing gifts (apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers), supporting gifts (service, teaching, encouragement, giving, administration, and mercy), and ministry gifts (wisdom, healing, miracles, discernment, tongues, & interpretation). Each gift is vital. Imagine if Patrick Mahomes decided to play as a defensive lineman instead of quarterback—it wouldn’t go well! Similarly, when believers fail to operate in their intended roles, the Church’s effectiveness is hindered.
Discovering your spiritual gift in these ways:
1. Read Scripture – What Does God’s Word Say About Gifts?
2. Ask God – Pray for Guidance & ask the Holy Spirit to Reveal Your Gift
3. Ask Yourself – Look at your passions and strengths.
4. Ask others – get input from Fellow Believers.
5. Step out of your comfort zone – Trust God to show up as you serve.
You don’t fully discover your spiritual gift sitting on the sidelines — you discover them getting in the game! As we try different ministry roles, God reveals where we are most effective.
However, gifts can be misused or neglected. Some believers, out of fear or uncertainty, leave their gifts unwrapped, collecting dust. Others misuse them for self-promotion rather than serving the body of Christ. Paul reminds us in 1 Corinthians 13 that without love, even the most spectacular gifts are meaningless. Our focus should always be on edifying others, not elevating ourselves. Spiritual maturity isn’t measured by gifts but by the fruit of the Spirit—love, joy, peace, and so on.
The Church is at its best when every person embraces their unique spiritual gift. If you’re unsure of yours, start by praying and serving in different areas. If you already know your gift, ask yourself—are you using it? If not, what’s stopping you? God never calls us without equipping us. Whether through teaching, encouraging, serving, or leading, your gift is essential to the Church’s mission. So step into your calling, and let’s move forward together, just as God designed.