Embracing Your Unique Gifts for God's Purpose
Summary
In today's message, we explored the profound concept of purpose and the unique gifts that God has placed within each of us. Drawing from the story of David and Saul in 1 Samuel 17, we learned that just as David could not wear Saul's armor to defeat Goliath, we too must embrace our own God-given gifts and paths to fulfill our purpose. Each of us has been uniquely equipped by God, and our journey is not a one-size-fits-all. Our destination as believers is the same—the Great Commission—but the paths we take to get there are as diverse as the gifts we possess.
We delved into the importance of recognizing and utilizing our gifts, understanding that they are not for our own glory but to advance God's kingdom. Our gifts are our tools, much like David's sling and stones, and they are meant to be used in the settings where God has placed us, whether in ministry, our workplaces, or our homes. The key is to be confident in the gifts God has given us and to stop trying to wear someone else's armor.
Moreover, we discussed how our gifts grow with us as we mature in our faith and align ourselves more closely with God's will. Our gifts, when combined with the power of God, become our superpowers, enabling us to make a significant impact in the world. We are reminded that it takes all of us working together, each playing our part in the body of Christ, to achieve the mission of reaching people and growing God's kingdom.
Finally, we emphasized that our purpose is not tied to a title or position but is found in our submission to Christ. We are encouraged to chase purpose, not titles, and to seize the opportunities we have every day to use our gifts for God's glory. For those seeking to discover their gifts, we offer the Engage course, which helps individuals identify their spiritual gifts and find ways to serve within the church.
Key Takeaways:
1. Embrace Your Unique Path: Just as David could not wear Saul's armor, we must embrace our unique gifts and paths. Our journey to fulfilling God's purpose is not one-size-fits-all, and we must be confident in the gifts God has given us. [47:43]
2. Gifts for God's Glory: Our gifts are not for building our own platforms but for advancing God's kingdom. They are tools to make Jesus known and to point others to Him. Our purpose is to use our gifts to fulfill the Great Commission. [49:39]
3. Growth and Alignment: As we grow in our faith, our gifts grow with us. The closer we align with God's will, the more powerful our gifts become. Our gifts, when combined with God's power, become our superpowers, enabling us to impact the world. [55:05]
4. Collective Purpose: It takes all of us working together to fulfill God's mission. Each of us plays a vital role in the body of Christ, and when we operate in our specific gifts, we strengthen the church and make a greater impact. [57:19]
5. Submission Over Titles: Our purpose is not found in titles or positions but in our submission to Christ. We are encouraged to chase purpose, not titles, and to use our gifts wherever we are to make a difference for God's glory. [01:02:11]
Youtube Chapters:
- [00:00] - Welcome
- [00:45] - Introduction and Acknowledgments
- [02:30] - Upcoming Relationship Series
- [04:15] - Recap of Previous Weeks
- [05:30] - Chasing Purpose
- [07:00] - The Story of David and Saul
- [09:15] - Embracing Your Unique Gifts
- [11:30] - The Great Commission
- [13:00] - Discovering Your Gifts
- [15:00] - Using Gifts in Different Settings
- [17:00] - The Power of Collective Purpose
- [19:00] - Submission Over Titles
- [21:00] - Invitation to Engage Course
- [23:00] - Call to Salvation
- [25:00] - Closing Prayer and Celebration
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
- 1 Samuel 17:38-40
- Matthew 28:19-20
- Ephesians 4:11-13
#### Observation Questions
1. In 1 Samuel 17:38-40, why did David choose not to wear Saul's armor when facing Goliath? How did this decision reflect his confidence in his own God-given gifts? [45:23]
2. According to Matthew 28:19-20, what is the Great Commission, and how does it define the ultimate purpose for believers? [47:43]
3. Ephesians 4:11-13 mentions different roles within the church. What are these roles, and how do they contribute to building up the body of Christ? [51:18]
#### Interpretation Questions
1. How does the story of David and Saul illustrate the importance of embracing one's unique gifts rather than trying to imitate others? [49:39]
2. What does it mean for our gifts to grow with us as we mature in our faith, and how can this growth impact our ability to fulfill the Great Commission? [55:05]
3. How can believers work together, using their diverse gifts, to strengthen the church and advance God's kingdom? [57:19]
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a time when you tried to "wear someone else's armor" by imitating their gifts or path. What did you learn from that experience, and how can you embrace your unique gifts moving forward? [49:39]
2. Identify a specific setting in your life (workplace, home, community) where you can use your gifts to make a difference. What steps can you take this week to actively use your gifts in that setting? [52:59]
3. Consider the role of submission in discovering and using your gifts. How can you practice submission to Christ in your daily life to better align with His purpose for you? [01:02:11]
4. Think about a gift you have that you haven't fully developed or used. What practical steps can you take to grow in this area and use it for God's glory? [55:05]
5. How can you encourage others in your small group or church community to discover and use their gifts? What role can you play in helping them find their path? [57:19]
6. Reflect on the idea that our purpose is not tied to a title or position. How can you shift your focus from seeking titles to seeking opportunities to serve and make an impact? [01:02:11]
7. If you haven't already, consider taking a spiritual gifts assessment or joining a course like Engage. How might this help you better understand and utilize your gifts within the church? [01:03:15]
Devotional
Day 1: Embrace Your Unique Path
Each person is uniquely equipped by God with specific gifts and a distinct path to follow. Just as David could not wear Saul's armor to face Goliath, we too must embrace the unique gifts and paths God has given us. Our journey to fulfilling God's purpose is not a one-size-fits-all, and we must be confident in the gifts God has bestowed upon us. This confidence allows us to walk boldly in our calling, knowing that our path is designed specifically for us. Embracing our unique path means recognizing that our differences are intentional and purposeful, crafted by God to fulfill His greater plan. [47:43]
1 Corinthians 12:4-6 (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."
Reflection: What unique gifts has God given you that you may have been hesitant to embrace? How can you begin to walk confidently in these gifts today?
Day 2: Gifts for God's Glory
Our gifts are not meant for self-promotion or personal gain but are tools to advance God's kingdom. Like David's sling and stones, our gifts are meant to be used in the settings where God has placed us, whether in ministry, our workplaces, or our homes. The purpose of our gifts is to make Jesus known and to point others to Him. By using our gifts for God's glory, we fulfill the Great Commission and contribute to the growth of His kingdom. It is essential to remember that our gifts are not for building our own platforms but for advancing God's mission. [49:39]
1 Peter 4:10-11 (ESV): "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."
Reflection: In what ways can you use your gifts to serve others and glorify God in your current environment?
Day 3: Growth and Alignment
As we grow in our faith, our gifts grow with us. The closer we align ourselves with God's will, the more powerful our gifts become. Our gifts, when combined with God's power, become our superpowers, enabling us to make a significant impact in the world. This growth and alignment require intentionality and a willingness to submit to God's guidance. As we mature spiritually, we discover new depths and dimensions of our gifts, allowing us to serve more effectively and with greater impact. [55:05]
Ephesians 4:15-16 (ESV): "Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ, from whom the whole body, joined and held together by every joint with which it is equipped, when each part is working properly, makes the body grow so that it builds itself up in love."
Reflection: How can you align yourself more closely with God's will to allow your gifts to grow and become more impactful?
Day 4: Collective Purpose
It takes all of us working together to fulfill God's mission. Each of us plays a vital role in the body of Christ, and when we operate in our specific gifts, we strengthen the church and make a greater impact. Our collective purpose is to work together, using our diverse gifts to achieve the mission of reaching people and growing God's kingdom. This requires unity, collaboration, and a recognition that every member of the body is essential. By embracing our collective purpose, we can accomplish more together than we ever could alone. [57:19]
Romans 12:4-5 (ESV): "For as in one body we have many members, and the members do not all have the same function, so we, though many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another."
Reflection: How can you contribute to the collective purpose of your church community using your unique gifts?
Day 5: Submission Over Titles
Our purpose is not found in titles or positions but in our submission to Christ. We are encouraged to chase purpose, not titles, and to use our gifts wherever we are to make a difference for God's glory. True fulfillment comes from submitting to Christ and allowing Him to guide our paths. By focusing on submission rather than titles, we can find contentment and purpose in every situation, knowing that our ultimate goal is to serve God and advance His kingdom. [01:02:11]
Colossians 3:23-24 (ESV): "Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ."
Reflection: In what areas of your life are you seeking titles or recognition over submission to Christ? How can you shift your focus to serving God wholeheartedly?
Quotes
"Good morning, everybody. Thank you so much. You can be seated this morning. Wow. What a good crowd. It's so good to see you all. It's so good to be with you all this morning. I'm so honored and so excited to get to bring the word today. And I first want to thank Pastor Brandon for that really kind introduction that he did. And Pastor Brandon, I want to say thank you so much for being here. And I want to say thank you so much for being here. And I say thank you for the way that you lead us as a staff, the way that you lead this church, the way that you live your life. Guys, we are so blessed. We are so honored to have Pastor Brandon as our lead pastor here. And so it's just an honor to do ministry alongside you and your family and alongside Radiate Church. So thank you. And thank you for trusting me this morning to bring the word here in Columbia. And church, can we give it up just a moment for Pastor Brandon Goff? Can we do that? Just show him some honor. That's right. Yes, yes. So I'm really excited again to be here with you guys. And I first want to say welcome to all of our guests in the room again. I am so glad that you're here and I can't wait to get to connect with you and meet you at some point. We hope that you come back, that you felt so welcomed and valued this morning. And please, yes, stop at the Connect Center on your way out today so that we can meet you, connect with you, and give you a gift." [00:38:20] (85 seconds)
"And the goal of every sport is to win, right? We want to win the game, and your equipment helps you do that, right? So, you can't play golf with a tennis racket, right? No, I can't go play tennis with a stick, and I can't go play hockey with a baseball bat. I would look ridiculous. It would not make any sense. And we wouldn't win, right? We wouldn't win the game. In life, many of us, we ignore our own equipment. We ignore our gifts, and we try on the equipment and gifts of other people, because it looks really appealing, or that seems really cool, and I admire this about this person, and I value that gift in them. And so, we try all of these gifts on. We try to use all these equipment, and it's not made for us." [00:43:23] (49 seconds)
"So, everybody in here, in the room today, myself included, each and every one of you, you have a gift and an ability that was placed in you by God. And it's a gift for you to use, and it was placed in you on purpose, for a purpose. And it's for you to use. It's for you to advance the kingdom of God. And if we continue to try on the gifts of other people and walk around in the gifts of other people, it's not going to work out, right? They're not going to fit us." [00:46:23] (31 seconds)
"Matthew 28 verses 19 through 20 tells us, go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe everything I have commanded you. And remember, I am with you always to the end of the age. That's the great commission. That is our destination. That's the goal. That's the win. Our mission in life is to recruit people to heaven. We want to take people to heaven with us. That is our purpose. That is our destination. But our path, our path to get there is our gift. What do we do with our gifts and what settings are we in to use our gifts to get to the destination?" [00:48:13] (50 seconds)
"And so your gift, maybe it's speaking, maybe it's teaching, maybe it's playing an instrument or singing, maybe it's administration or hospitality or craftsmanship. There's a wide array of gifts that are out there, but whatever your gift is, that is your path. You use that on your path to the destination. And our gift, it's not for us. It's not to build our own platform. It's not to make ourselves known. It's to make Jesus known. It's to point people to Jesus and build his kingdom, not ours." [00:49:02] (32 seconds)
"So just as David had to use his stones and his sling to defeat Goliath and not Saul's armor, we have to be confident in our giftings and use and develop our gifts. So I want to encourage you this morning to build up those. So in the book of Ephesians, chapter 4, chapter 4, verses 11 through 13, it says, and he himself gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, some pastors and teachers, equipping the saints for the work of ministry to build up the body of Christ until we all reach unity in the faith. And so I want to encourage you to build up those. And in the knowledge of God's son, growing into maturity with a stature measured by Christ's fullness. Wow." [00:50:27] (49 seconds)
"And many of you who know me personally know that prior to coming on staff here at Radiate Church, I was a nurse. And I was a nurse for five years. And I really was proud of the work that I got to do there. And I like to parallel these because as a nurse, I used gifts. The gifts God has given me to love on and care for others, to be a caregiver, to encourage, and to help heal. And now I'm working in ministry as a connections director. And guess what? I'm using those same exact gifts. And so while my setting changed, the direction changed a little bit, my gifts remain the same. I'm just using them. In a different setting. And so your settings can change, but you still use the same gifts to make maximum impact wherever you may be." [00:53:22] (53 seconds)
