Love One Another III
As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace: whoever speaks, as one who speaks oracles of God; whoever serves, as one who serves by the strength that God supplies—in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. To him belong glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen. 1 Peter 4:10-11
God has blessed every one of us with gifts. The gifts are various—some of us can speak with eloquence, some can sing and lead worship with passion, some can teach with patience, some can lend a listening ear, some can cook with love, and some can lead with integrity. Yet, the source of all these gifts is the same—our gracious Heavenly Father.
Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change. James 1:17
The Bible reminds us that these gifts are not just for our own benefit or enjoyment, but they are given to us so that we might serve one another. Peter's instruction is straightforward and profound: use your gift to serve others. We are called to be good stewards of these blessings, to multiply them, and share them with our fellow brothers and sisters.
In everything, our ultimate purpose should be to glorify God. We are simply the vessels through which His grace flows, His instruments to extend His love in the world. Every act of service performed with our gifts should point others back to Him for His glory and majesty. Our service is our worship, our tangible love letter to the God who loves us beyond measure.
Dear Church, as we walk through today, let's take a moment to acknowledge our gifts and consider how we might use them to serve those around us. Let's be mindful that in every word spoken and every act of service, we have the opportunity to glorify God.
A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another." John 13:34-35
