In the letter to the Ephesians I see an example ministering to others. As such, I learn about practical service using my giftedness.
Key Passage: Ephesians 6:21-24
Combining life purpose, giftedness, attitude change, and wise use of my time position me for practical service using my giftedness.
Paul provides an example of this type of ministry when closing his letter to the Ephesians.
The Lord is the source of a believer’s strength! Ephesians 6.10 paraphrase
Some Insights
Paul wanted the Ephesians to know what was happening in his life, Ephesians 6.21.
Since he wasn’t free to travel, Paul sent a co-worker whose giftedness involved ministry. Specifically, by using the diakonos gift. That is, the gift of practical service to others.
In addition, that co-worker also had the ability to come alongside others to provide comfort and encouragement, Ephesians 6.22.
Compare this verse in Ephesians with Colossians 4.7-8. There, we see the same person exercising same two gifts to a different group of believers! As such, he was consistently doing what he was gifted to do! Thus, he was a good steward of his gifts.
My Giftedness
These two gifts are discussed in Romans 12.7, ministry, and Romans 12.8, exhortation.
These gifts come to me from God. He decides how I will be gifted. Then, I decide to develop and use that gift or gifts.
But, be aware that having something to give back requires the accumulation of insights through life experiences.
Perhaps you can see yourself in one or both roles, assisting, comforting, and encouraging. Or, maybe other gifts listed in Romans 12 are a better match for you.
Regardless of the gift, I tend to realize my life purpose by using my God-given giftedness to minister to others.
Closing the Letter
Paul closes his letter to the Ephesians with a short blessing.
He wishes for them peace and love from God the Father, Ephesians 6.23.
Then, he wishes for them God’s grace, Ephesians 6.24.
That blessing, I believe, is a great example of using what we say to build up others as we minister grace to them, Ephesians 4.29.
Therefore, like these examples in Ephesians, I can exhibit practical service using my giftedness.
The grace we share is the experiential insight we have inside by responding appropriately to circumstances.
Apply These Precepts
Ministry and encouragement involve taking direct action as I share with others from my heart.
It’s one thing to be gifted. And, it’s another thing to be aware of that gift. Most importantly, I must move beyond awareness to using the gift in practical service to others.
Moreover, practical service is done with purpose and intention, hence thoughtfulness. It’s not accidental!
“The Lord make his face shine upon you…” Numbers 6.22-27
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