Romans 12:6-8 – October 1

We are currently studying the book of Romans. You can read the NIV version below or your favorite Bible version then spend some time meditating and journaling on the reading, letting God speak to you through it. We encourage use of the SOAP method of Bible study as you grow in your relationship with God. Check out the What’s SOAP tab above for more info. Also, below today’s reading is a SOAP journal entry from our team to help dive into God’s Word. And we encourage you to share your SOAP journal entry or prayer requests in the Comments section on our website.

The Discover One Thing main website continues to follow the Life Journal Reading Plan which covers the whole Bible in one year. Click HERE to check out today’s Discover One Thing post.

 

Romans 12:6-8 – Humble Service in the Body of Christ

⁶ We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your faith; ⁷ if it is serving, then serve; if it is teaching, then teach; ⁸ if it is to encourage, then give encouragement; if it is giving, then give generously; if it is to lead, do it diligently; if it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully.

 

Lots of Gifts! | Becky Newman

Scripture

Romans 12:6

Observation

Brief today but profound to our walk. We all have different gifts; one gift is not greater than the others. As if the gift of salvation wasn’t enough! Amazing, God gives us gifts to share with others which we’re supposed to use to point them to His ultimate gift of salvation and hence glorify God. No wonder we like Christmas so much! God teaches us how awesome gifts are! My Bible’s notes dive further into these gifts as they are discussed here in Romans and also in 1 Corinthians 12. Here’s the highlight reel: “At the time of salvation, a believer receives the gift of the Holy Spirit’s presence; then throughout life, she uses specific spiritual gifts given by the Spirit for the benefit of others…Most important in the eyes of the Lord is not the particular gift but rather an individual’s faithfulness to use the gift bestowed unselfishly and for the edification of the church…Personal Bible study and prayer can help a Christian unwrap unique gifts of the Spirit…Since God has carefully selected specific spiritual gifts for each of His children, each Christian is responsible for discovering, developing, and using her personal gifts for God’s service.”

Application

I love the way Paul spells it out: since you have a gift from God, you need to use it! Yesterday’s reading talked about offering your body as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God (vs. 1). This is how I can do that–use the gifts You have given me to benefit others and do it from an overflow of love in my heart so that it will glorify You. But I wouldn’t be diving in deep enough today if I didn’t answer the question–what are the gifts/talents You have given me? Yes – Serving and giving from the list in verse 7 and faith from the list in 1 Corinthians 12. Maybe – teaching, leading, and encouraging but usually only if there’s a gap that needs to be filled in. No – healing, speaking tongues, prophecy, showing mercy, miraculous powers.

Prayer

Thank You for all of Your gifts! Help me to continue to discover, develop, and use the gifts You have given me with a good heart, for the benefit of others, and all for Your glory. I also pray the same for those who are reading this. Help us all to work together for the benefit of the The Body.