What does it mean to live my time in the will of God? Well, in 1 Peter Chapter 4, I read about God’s will for my giftedness.
Key Passage: First Peter 4.1-19
What does it mean to live our time in the will of God? Glad you asked, because in First Peter Chapter 4, we read about God’s will for our giftedness.
There, the comparison Peter used is what we were like in the past, versus what we have become after being spiritually transformed.
Actually, Chapter 4 of First Peter begins where First Peter Chapter 3 ends, with the challenges Christ faced while on earth.
Moreover, the “Likewise” in First Peter 4.1 is a call for believers to adopt the same mindset that was evident in the earthly life of Christ.
Similar to this call from Peter, Paul makes this same request to the Philippians in regard to mindset and humility.
You should take on the mind of Christ. Philippians 2.5 paraphrase
Some Insights
When I take on the mind of Christ, I give up a self-focused life because I’m living my time in the will of God, First Peter 4.2.
Previously, I lived to myself in lusts and partying, First Peter 4.3. Well, not me you understand – it’s all those other people who are acting like that!
But now, I’m prepared to answer to God, First Peter 4.4-6.
Personal Changes
Thus, my priorities have changed, First Peter 4.7, because I recognize the value of the time I’ve been given.
Now, I’m loving to others, First Peter 4.8, and hospitable, First Peter 4.9. Well, sometimes!
Also, I recognize my special giftedness from God, see First Peter 4.10. As a result, I’m a good steward of those gifts as evidence of God’s grace in and through me.
For example, the ability to come alongside and minister to others is a spiritual gift, according to First Peter 4.11.
Use your gift; if it’s coming alongside someone else, then do that! Romans 12.8 paraphrase
Building My Giftedness
What are you doing – intentionally – to build up your giftedness?
More fundamentally, do you know your spiritual gift/gifts?
For starters, knowing what you’re good at – implies some level of self-awareness. Thus, I need some realistic perception of my abilities.
Alternatively, what do others point out to you about how you positively impact them?
However, spiritual gifts are NOT human skills. For example, music is a developed skill. Whereas, the ability to minister to others through music is a spiritual gift. Conversely, without the spiritual gift, music may simply be a performance.
In like manner, being teachable implies a desire to learn more. Also, it implies a willingness to be corrected. Thus, I must admit I don’t know it all!
Finally, If I adopt a growth mindset, I make possible dramatic personal and professional growth. As a result, I’m learning how to best use my giftedness.
What’s The Context?
The context for the use of our gifts is, at times, during life difficulty. For some examples, read First Peter 1.6-7, 3.13-18, and 4.12-19.
As well, this may be God’s will for us, First Peter 4.19.
What’s implied by giftedness is that I’m aware of needs. Also, that I use my giftedness to address those needs.
By using my giftedness I recognize God’s will for my giftedness!
Apply These Precepts
First, the will of God demands that I no longer live to myself. Instead, I become the person God desires.
Next, note in First Peter 4.15 that a murderer is no worse than a busybody! Thus, sin is sin and we are accountable.
Finally, remember that our ministry activity is God’s grace flowing through us. Conversely, that ministry is not because we are so specially or so uniquely gifted!
“The Lord make His face shine upon you…” Numbers 6.22-27
Thanks for visiting. If you have any questions or comments, please contact me: larrydaleyoung@gmail.com