God Made You to Be YouSample

DAY 4: You've Got Gifts in You

If you asked me to list the gifts or talents God has given each of my friends and family, I could do that pretty easily. But if you ask me to list my own gifts, I’m going to need a little more time. Why is it so difficult to see in ourselves what we can so readily see in others? 

If you’re having trouble seeing your gifts or talents, ask those closest to you. Chances are, they can already see them at work! Also, talk to the One who gave them to you. Ask God to open your eyes to see the gifts He has placed inside you.

Here’s the thing, though: they might not be what you expect. Think outside of the box because you know God does! Look beyond singing and teaching and preaching. Maybe those are your gifts, and that’s wonderful. But maybe you’re gifted at encouragement, at organization, at numbers, at working with children, at cooking, or at car repair—each of those gifts is equally amazing. Remember these are gifts from God, so there are no bad ones to be found. God only gives good gifts (Matthew 7:11).

Also, keep in mind that God’s plan for how He wants you to use your gifts might not be easy. Exercising these gifts take some practice, work, and sacrifice. You might have to overcome a fear or two. Just remember that God will give you everything you need to accomplish what He wants you to do (2 Corinthians 9:8). So talk to God—and start opening up the gifts He has given you!

For the Kids: There’s a Gift in You

In God Made You to Be You, it was easy for Sammy to see all the wonderful things others could do, but he couldn’t see all the special things about himself. Then, one by one, Sammy’s friends pointed out his gifts to him. They helped him see who God made him to be!  

• What do you think it means to have a “gift” for something? 
• Name at least three things you are really good at doing. 
• How can you use your gift to help others learn about God?