“Gifts of Service”

Tuesday, July 27, 2021

As each one has received a gift, minister it to one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.”  (1 Peter 4:10)

For 10 years of my young life, it was my privilege to perform with a band. Precision marching, concert, and jazz were all a part of my experience. At each venue the success of the performance depended on the help of each member doing their part well.The body of Christ, and its success may be compared with the success of a band.

I remember occasions during a band performance when the cymbal player had only one note in the whole piece. But without that note, the concert was not complete. In the Lords church each member is given a gift from God.  These talents are given to individual Christians for the good of the whole church. Every member of Christ’s body is a steward of the gifts given to them. This means that each member is expected to nurture and, and use that gift.

The success of the performance also depended on each bandsmen playing in tune. God has given the body of Christ parameters. If one speaks it must be according to the oracles of God. (Vs. 11)  If it is the gift of ministering, it must be according to one’s ability. (Vs. 11) Flutes don’t sound like drums. A trumpet is not a clarinet. So each member of the body must be content with the gift they have. They must use that gift according to God’s directions so that harmony will prevail and God will be pleased.

Members of the body may serve in various ways, but in the context of love the end result is beautiful. (Vs. 8) A service rendered out of genuine care for others will produce the richest music. The disciples Peter was addressing were “pilgrims of the Dispersion”. (1:1) They were experiencing fiery trials. (1:7)  But, through compassion, shoulder to shoulder, they could lift the spirits and bolster the courage of one another.

Sometimes our work in the Lord goes unnoticed and receives very little appreciation. Our self-love may repulse us from the task at hand, but Peter has an antidote for that. The apostle instructs us to render our service with a view to God. “If anyone ministers, let him do it as with the ability which God supplies, that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom belong the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen” (1 Peter 4:11) 

The body of Christ is designed for mutual service. No one is wholly the giver or the receiver. Everyone has a gift, and everyone has a need. Dear brother, find your gift. Take directions from God. And use the gift that you have with passion. When each member of the body is doing their part in love, the results will be like a tune played with perfect precision, and God will be honored.

By George Slover 

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