Embracing Service: Growing Through Our Spiritual Gifts

Devotional

Day 1: God Cares Deeply for His People, Even in Death

The Lord’s love and care for His people extends even to the moment of their death, and He delights in their gratitude and faithfulness. When we recognize that God has freed us from our chains and calls us His own, our natural response is to offer Him thanksgiving and fulfill our vows in the presence of His people. This truth reminds us that our lives—and even our deaths—are precious to God, and that our service and worship are meaningful acts of gratitude for His mercy and deliverance. [30:03]

Psalm 116:15-19 (ESV)
Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints. O Lord, I am your servant; I am your servant, the son of your maidservant. You have loosed my bonds. I will offer to you the sacrifice of thanksgiving and call on the name of the Lord. I will pay my vows to the Lord in the presence of all his people, in the courts of the house of the Lord, in your midst, O Jerusalem. Praise the Lord!

Reflection: In what ways can you offer a “sacrifice of thanksgiving” to God today, especially in the midst of your challenges or grief?

Day 2: Every Believer Has a Spiritual Gift from God

God has given every believer a spiritual gift, not leaving anyone out, so that each person can play a unique and vital role in the body of Christ. Even if you are unsure of what your gift is, you can be confident that the Holy Spirit has equipped you for service. The gifts are diverse—ranging from wisdom and knowledge to healing and hospitality—and are distributed as the Spirit determines, not according to our preferences. Embracing this truth leads to optimism and a willingness to discover and use your God-given gifts for His purposes. [37:35]

1 Corinthians 12:4-11 (ESV)
Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; and there are varieties of service, but the same Lord; and there are varieties of activities, but it is the same God who empowers them all in everyone. To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good. For to one is given through the Spirit the utterance of wisdom, and to another the utterance of knowledge according to the same Spirit, to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healing by the one Spirit, to another the working of miracles, to another prophecy, to another the ability to distinguish between spirits, to another various kinds of tongues, to another the interpretation of tongues. All these are empowered by one and the same Spirit, who apportions to each one individually as he wills.

Reflection: What is one area in your life where you sense God may have gifted you, and how can you begin to explore or use that gift this week?

Day 3: Spiritual Gifts Are Given for the Common Good

The purpose of spiritual gifts is not for personal benefit or private enjoyment, but for the common good of the church and the wider community. When we use our gifts only for ourselves or our families, we miss the opportunity to bless others and build up the body of Christ. God calls us to look beyond our comfort zones and consider how our unique abilities—whether in hospitality, teaching, music, or service—can be used to serve others and strengthen the church. [42:30]

1 Peter 4:10 (ESV)
As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace.

Reflection: Is there a gift or talent you currently use only at home or in private? How might you offer it for the benefit of your church or community this month?

Day 4: Serving Others Grows Our Faith and Brings Glory to God

Serving in the church is not just about meeting needs; it is a pathway to spiritual growth, discipline, and giving glory to God. Through serving, we interact with others, learn to work together, and develop our gifts. These experiences sharpen us, teach us discipline, and ultimately reflect the character of Jesus, who came not to be served but to serve. Every act of service, no matter how small, is an opportunity to honor God and become more like Christ. [49:27]

1 Corinthians 10:31 (ESV)
So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.

Reflection: What is one practical way you can serve someone in your church or neighborhood this week, intentionally doing it for the glory of God?

Day 5: Serving Reflects the Heart of Jesus

True followers of Jesus are called to serve, following His example of humble service—even in the most menial tasks. Jesus, knowing His authority and identity, washed His disciples’ feet and taught that greatness in His kingdom comes through serving others. When we serve, we reflect the heart of Christ and participate in His mission, regardless of our past mistakes or perceived unworthiness. The invitation is open to all: if you are a Jesus follower, you are called to serve. [53:27]

John 13:3-5, 12-15 (ESV)
Jesus, knowing that the Father had given all things into his hands, and that he had come from God and was going back to God, rose from supper. He laid aside his outer garments, and taking a towel, tied it around his waist. Then he poured water into a basin and began to wash the disciples' feet and to wipe them with the towel that was wrapped around him... When he had washed their feet and put on his outer garments and resumed his place, he said to them, “Do you understand what I have done to you? You call me Teacher and Lord, and you are right, for so I am. If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet. For I have given you an example, that you also should do just as I have done to you.

Reflection: What is one humble act of service you can do today to follow Jesus’ example, even if it goes unnoticed by others?

Sermon Summary

Today’s focus is on the essential role of service in the Christian journey. Each person who has given their heart to Jesus has been uniquely gifted by the Holy Spirit, not for their own benefit, but for the common good of the church and the world. These gifts are diverse—ranging from wisdom, knowledge, faith, healing, hospitality, teaching, and more—and are distributed as the Spirit determines, not according to our preferences. The call is to recognize that no one is left out; everyone has something to offer, regardless of their past or perceived shortcomings.

Service is not just an activity, but a means by which we grow in faith and character. It sharpens us through our interactions with others, teaching us patience, humility, and discipline. Serving together often brings us into situations where our preferences and personalities may clash, but it is precisely in these moments that God shapes us. Discipline is also cultivated as we commit to show up, be consistent, and follow through on our responsibilities.

Moreover, serving is an act of worship that brings glory to God. Even the simplest acts—like setting up communion trays or opening windows—are significant when done with a heart to honor God. Service is also the context in which our gifts are developed and refined. Just as a musician or preacher grows through practice and opportunity, so too do all who serve.

Jesus himself modeled this life of service, washing his disciples’ feet and teaching that true greatness is found in serving others. No one is too broken or unworthy to serve; willingness is what matters. The invitation is open: discover your gift, step out in faith, and let God use you for the blessing of others. Whether it’s in children’s ministry, hospitality, music, or behind-the-scenes work, every act of service is valuable and needed.

Key Takeaways

1. Every believer is uniquely gifted by the Holy Spirit for the common good. These gifts are not limited to a select few or to those who seem especially “holy.” God’s grace ensures that each person has a role to play, and discovering and using your gift is an act of faith and obedience. [37:35]
2. Service is a primary way God grows and shapes us. Through serving, we encounter real-life situations that challenge our preferences and character, leading to spiritual maturity. The friction and collaboration with others are not obstacles, but opportunities for God to refine us. [49:42]
3. No one is disqualified from serving because of past mistakes or feelings of inadequacy. The church is a community of forgiven people, not perfect ones. Willingness to serve, even in small or unseen ways, is what God honors and uses for His purposes. [41:53]
4. Serving is an act of worship that brings glory to God, regardless of the task’s visibility or perceived importance. When we serve with a heart to honor God, even the most mundane acts become sacred and impactful, reflecting the humility and love of Christ. [51:23]
5. Our gifts are developed and refined through use, not just discovery. Stepping out to serve, even when unsure or inexperienced, is how we grow into the fullness of what God has given us. The journey of service is ongoing, and every act of faithfulness builds the body of Christ. [52:36]

Youtube Chapters

[00:00] - Welcome
[30:03] - Psalm 116: God’s Care and Thanksgiving
[30:36] - 1 Corinthians 12: Spiritual Gifts
[32:31] - Series Introduction: Flowing as a Christian
[33:36] - The Importance of Bible Reading
[34:09] - Prayer and Spiritual Battle
[34:28] - The Call to Serve: A Personal Story
[35:43] - Growth Through Service: Warren’s Example
[37:02] - Understanding Spiritual Gifts
[39:06] - Learning Through Experience and Mistakes
[40:31] - Restoration and the Role of Service
[42:30] - Gifts for the Common Good
[44:25] - Using Your Gifts in the Church
[46:17] - The Spirit’s Choice in Gifting
[49:27] - How Serving Grows and Disciplines Us
[51:23] - Serving as Worship
[52:36] - Developing Your Gift Through Service
[53:27] - Jesus: The Ultimate Model of Service
[54:06] - Celebrating Service in Our Community
[55:12] - Opportunities to Serve at Grace Community
[57:33] - Final Encouragement and Prayer

Bible Study Guide

Bible Reading

1 Corinthians 12:1-11 — (Spiritual gifts are given by the Holy Spirit for the common good; each believer is uniquely gifted.)

- Psalm 116:12-19
(A psalm of thanksgiving and service: “O Lord, I am your servant… I will offer you a sacrifice of thanksgiving…”)

- John 13:1-17
(Jesus washes the disciples’ feet, modeling humble service.)

Observation Questions

According to 1 Corinthians 12, who decides which spiritual gifts each person receives, and for what purpose are these gifts given?
In Psalm 116, how does the psalmist describe his relationship to God, and what actions does he commit to as a result?
What specific act did Jesus perform in John 13 to demonstrate what it means to serve others?
In the sermon, what are some examples of “behind-the-scenes” acts of service that are considered valuable?

Interpretation Questions

Why does Paul emphasize that spiritual gifts are given “for the common good” rather than for personal benefit? How does this shape the way we view our own abilities?
The sermon mentions that no one is disqualified from serving because of past mistakes or feelings of inadequacy. What does this reveal about God’s grace and the nature of the church community?
How does serving others help us grow in faith and character, according to both the Bible passages and the sermon?
Jesus washed his disciples’ feet, an act usually done by servants. What does this teach us about the kind of service God values?

Application Questions

The sermon says that “no one is left out; everyone has something to offer, regardless of their past or perceived shortcomings.” Is there a way you’ve felt disqualified or hesitant to serve? What might it look like to step out in faith anyway?
Think about the gifts or abilities you use most often at home or work. Are there ways you could use these same gifts to serve in the church or community? What’s one step you could take this month to do that?
The pastor shared that serving often brings us into situations where our preferences and personalities may clash. Can you recall a time when serving with others challenged your patience or humility? How did God use that experience to shape you?
Serving is described as an act of worship that brings glory to God, even in small or unseen ways. What is one “small” act of service you could do this week with the intention of honoring God?
The sermon encourages us to discover and develop our gifts through use, not just by taking a test or reading about them. Is there a ministry or area of service you feel drawn to try, even if you feel inexperienced? What’s holding you back?
Jesus modeled humble service by washing his disciples’ feet. What is one practical way you can follow Jesus’ example of humble service in your family, workplace, or church this week?
The church is described as a community of forgiven people, not perfect ones. How can you encourage someone else who feels unworthy or hesitant to serve?

Sermon Clips

We are beginning a new series we began two weeks ago in which we're looking at how do we flow as a Christian? How do we make some movement or headway? And I showed you this picture the first week I was there of kind of like going through a church and it being a a conveyor belt as you move forward and you know what is it that takes a person who's come to faith and makes him a fully devoted follower of Christ? How does that happen? [00:32:34]

The reality is though it's not just about coming and sitting in a church service on a given Sunday there are elements that come into The first one we developed was Bible reading. That you have an opportunity to discover who God is and what he wants of us by consistently reading the scripture. [00:33:26]

God loves repenting people. The Church is not filled with perfect people. If you come to church and you think this is where the righteous people gather, no. This is where the people who know that they're sinners gather because we found the Lord so merciful. He forgives us. [00:40:26]

The Bible does not know of any in the church who does nothing. It just doesn't know that. And so I think she was right. And so don't let anyone tell you, "I'm not holy enough to serve." No, that disqualifies all of us if that was the issue. It's all about willingness. [00:42:00]

So you do you say to God, "It says that you equip everyone to serve. What's my gift?" and be open to what the Lord might tell you. Which brings me to the next key verse here. Just moving on. The spirit has given for the common good. [00:42:40]

So in other words, he equips everyone in the church. And the point of this equipping is for the common good. Now I have seen people who are extremely gifted and they're using their only at home, maybe only with their kids. [00:42:57]

Do you have a gift that you only use at home? You only use with one other friend or do you have something that you can bless others with? And then think for a moment, where can I use it in the church? Some of you folks are just so good at hospitality. [00:44:16]

If you have a proclivity to something, singing, a musical instrument, a teaching, hospitality, and then think to yourself, am I using it here at Grace Community Church? And if you're not, it's time to have a conversation with Pastor Steve, Pastor Seth. [00:45:09]

All these are work of one and the same spirit. So he has just finished going down all these gifts, gifts of wisdom, gives them knowledge, gifts of faith, of healing, miraculous powers, prophecy, distinguishing spirits, speaking in tongues, interpretation tongues. [00:45:46]

As much as I had fun being in that band, it wasn't my gift. It was something I enjoyed. It was a hobby. It was fun. But I can also tell you when I was 19 years old, my brother told me, "I have a church that will let you preach there if you want to get a chance." [00:48:00]

But when I that sermon which I by the way believe it terrible not terrible I knew that this was the sweet spot that I can sense was like I feel if I step out in faith in this area you're going to take care of me and and I have seen that over the years So everyone has a gift. [00:48:40]

Having spiritual gifts helps you to grow in your faith. Serving sharpens us through interactions. Now, here's the deal. Let's just say your gift is hospitality and you're downstairs and you're helping Marty set up for some event. Now, she likes to use this brand of coffee. [00:49:31]

The reality is though by working together our interactions actually make us a better person because we're forced to deal with other people. Second one is this. Serving helps us to be more disciplined. Like what time do you have to show up for a worship practice? [00:50:40]

Serving helps us to develop our gift. Now, I had a pastor who worked for me and I could tell he was gifted and was going to be a good preacher. And one day he came to me and said, "Steve, I'm grateful you hired me as pastor. I'm very grateful, but I would really like to develop my gift." [00:52:36]

You're becoming better at it as you move forward. And finally is this serving reflects Jesus. And one of my favorite Jesus stories is recorded in John 13. We read this. Jesus knowing that he came from God and was going back to God wrapped a towel around himself, grabbed a bas of water and began to wash the feet of his disciples. [00:53:20]

The bottom line is each one, no exceptions, has been given a special gift for the common good and he gets to pick it, not you. If you sense that he has gifted you in a particular area, step out in faith, brothers and sisters, and let's see. [00:57:30]

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